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| Date | Miles | Route | Riders | Report |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12/28/2002 | 40 | Two Coffee House Route | Ray, Michael K, Ed | No one would believe it. We didn't really believe it. A full, leisurely 2-coffee-house ride with no rain on dry roads in the perfectly timed window between storms. Ray, Michael, and I knew it would be a last-minute decision, as it often is this time of year. Ray and I decided to give it a shot, even though the skies were dark and threatening--but it was not raining. We called other Saturday regulars, but no other takers but Michael. Michael was there huddled in his truck--not from the cold, but from the wind. He stepped out and said that his wife had just called to tell him that it was pouring in Stockton. It was actually comparatively warm. So warm, in fact, that I didn't even need my long gloves for most of the ride. We decided to go straight to Sutter Creek to see if Steve would show up at the coffee house. No Steve, but plenty of people and warmth, so we sat and sipped/ate and chatted a while. Ray and I had double-shot drinks. We discussed where to go. MK and I favored riding straight back so that we could bail out in case of rain more easily or do Willow Creek-Irish Hill if no rain. Ray was more adventurous and prevailed after we were on our way back--after the steep climb up the school hill--so we made a sudden left at the top and went right back into town via the cemetery and then over Sutter Hill toward Stoney Creek. I was relieved that we could take Argonaut and go straight down, avoiding Hoffman. But noooooo. MK's bike was creaking, and he wanted to stop by Bill's for a checkup, so down Jackson Gate we went--Ray and I consoling ourselves with a record second coffee house stop while MK went to Bill's. While we were at it, we figured we'd go for a caffeine record by getting triples, giving us a total of quintuple shots for the day. I was a little worried about taking even more time on such a threatening day, even though there was a patch of blue sky above Buena Vista that we were aiming for. We dallied for a while, sipping espresso. Ray looked at the pictures in the magazine Italia and then strummed the guitar, as I read our zodiacal descriptions from a numerology book. We didn't know how good we had it on Hoffman until we started down Stoney. As soon as the fast downhill started, so did the scariness. The wind was very strong and swirling, blowing us all over the place. Michael was really being tossed around. Ray's front wheel was lifted off the road. Even though my weight helped me stay on the pavement, my bike was sent into the shimmies. We had to pay a lot more attention to handling our bikes in the wind, which came from the front and sides the whole time. It was a wild ride down Stoney for reasons we weren't used to. It was scary looking up at Ray in front of me leaning at almost a 45-degree angle into the side wind or being bounced around the road. The consolation was knowing that it would be a RARE tailwind into BV. Sure enough, after surviving the swirling gusts descending to wishing well, we turned the corner and Ray turned on the afterburners. We were propelled into another dimension. Ray at one point was spun out in his 53X13. We were going over 40MPH. This is one of Ray's time-trail routes. His best is about 6:40. Today, without a very good start, his time was under 5 minutes. Of course, that has a big asterisk by it for being heavily wind-aided. But even with the tailwind and a draft, Ray's pace was too much for Michael and me. The tailwind persisted down Jackson Valley. Wow, it was by far the easiest and fastest we've ever done that BV-Jackson Valley area. And not a drop of rain. In the parking lot, approx 2:00, we were disappointed that there was still no rain and we weren't riding. We sat and talked a while, waiting for the rain. Just as we gave up and said goodbye and were climbing into our cars, the first drops fell. The only bad time with the wind was down Stoney, where we had an adventure to remember for what might be our last ride of 2002. Since the wind pattern was backward from normal, we had an unprecedented tailwind for most of the end of the ride--until West Marlette, where it was a pure headwind, but we didn't care then. What a great adventure and fun ride. We were all glad we took the chance and caught the last warmth of 2002, probably. (EH) |
| 12/22/2002 | 49, 37*, 10** | Sutter Creek, Butte Mountain and back via Stoney Creek | Ed* Michael*, Jim G**, Steve H, John R, Larry H, and Chuck | On this the Winter Solstice it was appropriate that we road in search of the sun. It took a while, but we finally found sunshine halfway to Sutter Creek. That was all Jim needed. Just after we broke through the fog into blue sky, Jim descended back into the fog saying something about too bright a day for him. We hope he feels better soon. The rest of us road on, in search of the energy riders get from such a beautiful day. At Sutter Creek, Ed and Michael decided to enjoy the day at a more relaxed pace and went back to do Willow Creek after coffee while everyone else road around Butte Mountain. Steve led the chase down Stony Creek and back to Ione. It was so much fun, we agreed to do it again Tuesday for the AARP ride. See you soon and have a very happy holiday! (CG) |
| 12/11/2002 | 37 | B.V. Ione S.C. Jackson, Stoney Creek | S. Honeychurch,Jim Gray | The ARRP ride was postponed one day because of rain but we are nothing if not flexible. Jim jumped at the chance to miss a test but Stockton Boy van blew a hose going out the door so it was just the two of us. A perfect little window of time between storms made this seem all the better. A long cup of coffee to warm us up helped us up Sutter Hill but it was nice to motor down Stoney Creek at less than breakneck speed and actually see the landscape. Next week we will all probably have to rent boats. SWH |
| 12/8/2002 | 26+ | California International Marathon | Scott, Larry R, Jim G, Peter S, Kathy A, plus Tom, Glenda, Joey, Brett, John K, Peter, Frank, Don, William, Ann, Rick, and other cyclists and 4000 runners. | Thanks to Erma riders Jimmy, Larry, Peter, and Scott for volunteering as bike marshals for the 20th annual marathon. Those up front (Larry, Scott) had an exciting time of it and helped make this one a lot smoother than last year's. We also saw Dave Neff out there in his usual spot to watch the race go by. A very successful year and an exciting event, including an 80-year-old setting a world record--an inspiration to us all. (EH) |
| 12/8/2002 | 67 | Flat Fifty++ | John R, Karen R, Chuck G, Larry H,Steve Mc, Carolle Mc | When I pulled into the parking lot and saw Larry Hayes I knew it would be a day for pushing the pace...We headed out Five Mile rd. towards Buena Vista, we turned right at the store and rode along the North Shore of Lake Camanche. We headed across 88 hw on Liberty Rd. Then made our way back to Ione, at which time John wanted to add some extra miles. We made it back to Ione by 2:00pm and had a great time,good weather, and great people. As always it's great riding with Chuck,John and Karen, and needless to say, when riding with Larry he always pushes the pace. Thanks for another great day of cycling in Amador county. Smc |
| 12/7/2002 | 65 | SC-Vol-[Pine Grove-Volcano Road]- Aqueduct Road-Tabeau-Clinton-Jackson-Stoney Creek-BV-Ione | Steve and Carolle McGrath, Paul Molinelli, Ray, Steve H., Mike K., Al the Pal, Lee, P.J. | After a month-and-a-half hiatus from Erma's, I (P.J. Ramey) needed to get back out there before it starts to get really cold and my motivation levels sink to abysmal depths. Beautiful December day; sunny and not too cold. To Sutter Creek was a leisurely warm-up, as usual. Pacing began immediately on Creek Road, courtesy of Steve and Carolle. Then Al, Mike, Ray, and Lee broke away for the last 8-9 miles. After this point, I had to focus on my own pacing/riding as opposed to sticking with the others since they showed much better stamina. I just remember the last 30-35 miles being in my head. And in all consideration, I'm probably the last one who should be writing this report up but since Ray literally pushed me the last ten miles, I figured I'd repay him by writing it. This was the first ride where I almost felt I was going to pass out. Somehow, I didn't. Or maybe I did and Ray just held me up? : ) Anyway, if anybody on the ride would like to fill in the gaping gaps here with some a quicks note, please do. Sore throat so I'm going back to bed. See you all soon. (P.J.) Just a note to add that I wasn't the only one who pushed PJ back to Ione from Buena Vista. Michael and I traded off "assisting" PJ back to the parking lot. Had we known he was bonking/cramping and would need a push in, we wouldn't have ridden so hard (methinks PJ has acquired additional mass in the last 6 weeks (too much turkey?)...just kidding PJ!) (RC) Just to also add. I was pleased to return to ermas after a few weeks of rest.The riding and companioship is some of the best in the hills.PJ was not the only one feeling poorly-Had it not been for the McGrath tamdem,wich I sheltered my skinny body behind on the long downhills.I too would have had to been pushed along!Again.Thanks for the long pulls Steve and Carrol. (AL Q) |
| 12/3/2002 | 39 | Wildlife Route plus Molinelli detour, Butte Mt. | Steve H. Jim G., Gene, Paul M. and Stockton Boy | We welcomed Jim to our band of unemployed folks especially since he postponed an important academic exam just to be with us. It was very cold going up to Volcano as we exchanged stories of Thanksgiving and recent events. We warmed up finally going up Red Coral. Going down Tabaeu was the usual rapid pace but we all forgot that Butte MT ia uphill both ways! At Jackson Jim discovered a spoke was broken which was better than finding out at 40 mph going downhill. Bill fixed it quickly so we could catch the group for coffee and trade stories of past deeds and sexual conquest-way past! See you in a week SWH |
| 11/30/2002 | 21 | Shortened Coffee ride | S. Honeychurch |
Where were all the real riders on Saturday? I figure they must be tired from the post turkey ride or still full of food.So I headed out alone hoping to meet the S.C. contigent but no luck. After a mocha and motrin at the coffee house I headed back and plan to out Tuesday. SWH |
| 11/29/2002 | *82 **60 | Butte Mountain loop | *Steve Mc, **Carolle Mc, John R, Karen R. | Another beautiful day for cycling in Amador county, and the only riders too show up where the "Honeymooner's". I rode my single bike down too Ione, since Carolle has a new found love for the tandem (Can't say as I blame her)she would rather ride the tandem then her single bike, so I have to take advantage of riding my single bike when I can. Anyway, we decided to ride up and around Butte Mountain, once Karen made sure her outfit matched we took off. Today was a day for enjoying the weather, the route and the company, which on all accounts where great. I was a little worried about riding into Sutter Creek, being a holiday weekend and the fact that we where riding into town with the famous Rovane's, never know when the media will form around them wanting pictures (Now I know why Karen made sure her outfit matched) causing havoc and mayhem around us, we managed to ride straight through with no problems. Once we made it into Jackson, Carolle decided to help me through town (Yes, a back seat rider) by telling me how too miss cars and where I should be riding... Once out of Jackson we headed up Butte Mt. Carolle and I decided to practice standing together on the tandem,what a difference that makes. Now all I have too do is practice standing on the count of three, not two and a half. We made one short stop in Jackson, then headed home. Thanks for a great day.. Smc |
| 11/28/2002 | 34 | California Pedler Annual Turkey Ride | >300 Annual Turkey Day Ride & Steve H | If you are in the east bay on Thanksgiving and want a short and very fast ride this is the one to do. This about the 22nd year and this year the crowd was big. Mostly member of various club both recreation and racers and mostly ex-racers. This starts slowly out of Danville where I saw most everyone I ever know who rides a bike. They take over 1-2 entire lanes of the road out to Pleasanton where it seems to be the tradition for all the men to pee of the side of a small bridge (a guy thing) Unfortunately where it used to be all fields it's know all condos and such. Then the field takes off and you try to find a paceline or peleton that fits your speed going through one of the last remnants of farmland in Contra Costa county. I got hooked up in a nice size peleton of about 30 or so-small enough to be safe-or so I thought. Saw Fred Proudman there on a tandem with a nice (and very fast) lady I know but this was one tandem I could never catch in a hundred years. Steve and Carol would have loved it. Unfortunately as everyone was moving around in the peleton coming down from Blackhawk try to position for the final sprint one of the members of the Valley Spokesman Womens racing team touched a wheel with someone and the ensuing fracas was like watching the entire blue angels auger into the pavement. Had to play doctor again with 911 and the whole backbard- splint thing.but it look like all would recover.Aside from that it was fun but it's good to be back in the foothills in a thoughtful and careful group. SWH. |
| 11/26/2002 | 52 | The Old Flat 50 | Gene, Paul, Jimmy, JR and KB | Well, for Jimmy's initiation into the AARP group, this was a fine day to ride. Dr. Steve began the ride with us, but bailed when we met up with the other riders who started in Buena Vista. The rest of us sped thru what the old Jackson Bike Club affectionately called the "Flat 50" ride. Sounds easy? NOT!!! Nothing like pushing the pace as fast as you can go for a solid 3+ hours. The first half is nice. Meandering out towards Camanche Blues and to the right, over Camanche Res., but once you hit Highway 88, it's busy roads with all of us pace lining - heads down and no visiting - until we got closer to home where the traffic eased up a bit and there was a shoulder of sorts. This is the perfect "training" ride and yes, it can be done in under 3 hours. Those of us not used to being in the saddle (literally) for 3-1/2 hours were sore and more than ready to get off the bike, but you know JR . . . let's do Irish Hill, was his chant at the end . . . needless to say, he lost the vote and we headed for home. A great day to ride, as usual. Congratulations to Jimmy on his first official AARP ride!! Happy Turkey Day to all and we hope to see you on the Post Turkey Day ride!! kbr |
| 11/26/2002 | Hills 40 Flats 50 | Flat per K.B. Hills B.V. IONE Prison S.C. Jackson Stoney Creek. | Hills GroupS. Honeychurch.Joanne S. ,Mike ? Stockton boy, Flat Group Jim G., John R. Karen, Genel | Trying to coordinate the ride sometimes is like hearding cats since some need flats and some need hills. I started out with Jim Gene et.al. because the rest of the group came to B.V. instead. we met them by the side of the road in Jackson Valley sitting by the side of the road with a cut tire. The men sat and the woman went back to get a tire for the men. That.s a real woman! Peel me a grape Joanne! I joined them for the hills and it took us longer than flat flyers to do the route. We did enjoy sitting in the coffee house trading stories before racing down Stoney Creek. SWH |
| 11/24/2002 | 64: 59; 50; (43);(40); (2) | The Jim Gray Ride & Post Ride Surprize Retirement Party----MT. Aukum Loop | Jim (The Honoree); Dave B; Dave N; Larrry H; Carolle and Steve M; Steve H; Karen: John R (64); Chuck (59); Pat J (50): Ed ; Mickael (43); Cheyle (40) Penny (2 for driving to the ride with cake!!!) | Well we didn't have perfect weather but any day without rain this time of the year is about as close as we can get to perfect so we enjoyed the day. "The Jim Gray Ride and Post Ride Retirement Party" was a complete success and it turned out to be a surprize also.... Jim was led to believe ,thanks to Penny, that the ride was going to be JR's birthday ride with cake at the finish. The ride started with the fog being a bit thick but not of the drippy/wet variety. The peleton stayed together , for warmth, and had great chats all the way to Plymouth. After a short stop in Plymouth we pushed on but said goodbye to Cheryl who had to head home to start preparing for family that would be soon arriving for Turkey Day. While riding Shenandoah School Rd. the gang had spread out and it became apparent that Michael and Edzo were MIA. Chuck reported that Ed was having shifting problems so JR headed back in hopes of finding them coming along. However, E and MK were not to be found . JR headed back to the group with the bad news and met PJ heading for Plymouth and not feeling well at all. JR gave PJ his roll of "Campy TP" just in case the "johns" didn't have any when he got there. Near River Pines Chuck decided to "abandon" and he too headed back to Ione and took a power nap and was fully recovered by the time the rest of us got back around 2 o'clock. In beautiful downtown Mt. Aukum the sun was shining brightly and if felt "dandy" to soak up some rays before heading back into the fog. As might be expected, the ride down was FAST with The McGrath Tandem leading the way. Carolle is having a ball being out in front (actually in second place!) and barking orders for Steve to "keep the hammer down"! No stop was needed in Plymouth so the fun started again with several riders pulling out in front of Steve and Carolle ever so briefly and thus encouraging them to push harder ....which they did. The pace over Irish Hill must have been quite quick but "this reporter" wouldn't know since KBR and I enjoyed a more leisurely pace. Back in Ione Penny was there with cake so the party headed for Loretta's for the celebration . Ed left a note and it was good to read that he, PJ, and MK had returned safely. Jim was quite pleased with the whole day and appreciated the gifts ....especially those from Cheryl !! Jim received from her a supply of pill "goodies" for .... insomnia, joint pain, male enhancement (horny goat balls), aging, pep, memory etc.....they were passed around the table and I'm not sure if he got them all back since Larry was quite interested in "testing" them. So Jim, "Happy Retirement" from all your Ermas Diner friends .... you're the greatest! (JR) I am not sure if I should start out by thanking Larry Hayes or cursing him...either way I had a great time in the back of the McGrath gun barrel (our new tandem). I always feel good at the beginning and when Larry ride up to and past us laughing and taunting on Irish Hill it was "game on". After several cardiac moments I was warmed up. Note to self: never say out loud to anyone, especially my husband Steve and Larry Hayes that I am cold and need to climb to warm up. It was a great ride to Plymouth and on to Mt Aukum. Thank goodness for the Mothers Cookies in Mt Aukum. The pace was anything but relaxing as we headed out of Plymouth for Ione. Everyone took a turn at taunting the McGrath tandem and we bit each time. Thanks again to Karen and John for getting me to Forest Hill road. I don't remember much but looking down and peddaling, hearing someone say "Come on tandem, pick up the pace". And we did!!! Confortably back at the car it was time for pizza and cake. Thank you Penny for coming and enjoying with us! Thank you to my friend Jim Gray and all the Erma group for a great day! Happy retirement Jimmy! PS The Tuesday AAPR ride is anything but slow!!! Go get them Jimmy! (CMc) I would like to tell you what a nice ride I had coming back from Plymouth after leaving the group. At first I felt alittle lonely that I had to leave early and ride alone. I had my head tucked down, watching the white line and thinking about all the things I had to do when I got home. I realized I was missing the point. I ride to get out, to see the changes in the seasons, watch for wild life, I was not doing any of those things. As I started to look around I noticed the fat cows in the fields, the beautiful sky, the crisp air and the fence posts. The fence posts were filled with acorns! The critters had done their jobs and were ready for winter, the wooden posts were filled with acorns top to bottom. The posts actually looked like a piece of art, I wished I had camera with me (I am going to go back to take some photos). Just want to remind everyone to slow down and smell the roses every now and then. CY |
| 11/23/2002 | 50 | Saturday ride | Steve Mcgrath, Carolle McGrath | I could not believe nobody showed up for the Saturday ride. Everybody must be saving themselves for Jimmy's retirement ride tomorrow, for what ever reason, you missed a great ride. We left the parking lot at 9:00am, with no pre-determined route picked out we headed towards Camanche Blues, once there we decided to head up Stony Creek, the whole time Carolle wished she was on the tandem. We found the sun in Sutter Creek, we had a great day, with plenty of that communication stuff. Another great day for cycling in Amador county. Smc |
| 11/17/2002 | 58 | Ione, I. Hill, Willow Creek, S.C., Jackson, Butte Mt. Loop and back to Ione | Jimmy & Penny and Carolle & Steve (on their tandems), PJ, Dave N., Larry H., Mike A., JR & KB. | The Tandens & PJ just made the IHill loop, then headed home and they were either sick, injured or had a busy day ahead of them. When I realized who was left on the ride, my pulse raced and I started to sweat, and we were only starting SC/Ione Road . . . my gosh, I was left with a group of riders who I know would pound me into the ground, and, well, they did, but in a good way. They all waited patiently for my fat butt to crest all the hills, but in the spirit of Type-A-ness, I refused to stop and rest, but carried on. We make the Butte Mt. Loop in what must have been record time - and not due to my speed in climbing, but only because we never stopped!! It was great! By the time we were racing back towards Ione, my legs were SCREAMING at me - although it felt like I was racing until all the boys passed me like I was standing still! What a beautiful day for riding . . . all you missing Ermas missed a good one! See you next Sunday! kb/r |
| 11/16/2002 | 57 | SC-Jackson-Butte-Tabeau-Volcano-Shake | Ray, Michael, Ed, Lee; 38: Steve H, Gene (with cameos by Bev and Chris) | To appreciate a day like this fully, you have to arrive in Ione from the valley. Yes, the fog has started. As usual early in fog season, Ione was in sun. Hearing that the storm debris had been cleared and knowing that the sun was even warmer up higher, we headed toward Sutter Creek, unsure of plans after that. Gene was fully warmed up since he didn't know about the time change and had arrived an hour early (rides are at 9:00). Lee was back with Ray for his sophomore Erma ride, which means that we didn't have to be such good hosts this time, so he got (and gave) a bit of razzing when he wasn't off the front in the early going. This route gave him a good taste of Amador hills, with nearly 8000 feet of climbing. At SC we opted for Jackson for coffee and Tabeau as our route to Volcano on Rosie's birthday. I'm glad to report that the coffee house seems to be doing well. It had the biggest crowd we've seen so far, including Don Compton and the Stockton group, who pulled in just after we did. Steve and Gene had family duties and headed down Stoney. Triple espressos helped a lot as the rest of us climbed Butte and then Tabeau. But what really helped was that it was a warm (yes, even I was overdressed) and spectacular out. Before we knew it, we were zipping down 88, over Aqueduct, and into Volcano, where Rosie's bash was swinging at the Union, with live band and people spilling out into the street. Down Shake, Ray kicked into overdrive--or warp drive. If we've gone that fast down Shake before, I don't remember it. I was nearly spun out in a 53 X 12, so I think Ray has put on some bigger gears or something. I think triathlete Lee is more used to solo riding, so when the train pulled into Papa Bear Station, he had unhooked and showed up a short time later, still fast. Since I had to get back, we bypassed SC and did another time trial down Sutter-Ione. RC, MK, and I know that road very well, so Lee did a good job of solo riding to stay close. We did take a break in the middle when we came across Bev with Chris chasing. Turns out we're not good enough for Bev to ride with anymore. She's training to race this coming year--road racing this time. She has a coach and a program to follow to build her base, so she had to stick to that. When we heard that she's now starting to "get into shape" for road riding, we all put on brave faces, gritted our teeth, and said, "Oh, good...." by which we meant, "Oh, nooooo." She's going to tear up the women's road racing circuit, especially in hilly races. Then the train started again. At the highway, I took the first pull up and over the hill. Then Ray came around and did that overdrive shift again. It was all I could do to hang on after pulling. We were way over the speed limit as we pulled into Ione. I'm not sure I'm going to buy Ray any more triple espressos--but the ride today was sure worth the price of the ticket. Hills and speed. Thanks, Ray. Spectacular. (EH) 2nd half of ride: After leaving Incognito filled with "M & M,s" (motrin and mocha) Gene and I motored up Hoffman and started our cruise down Stoney Creek enjoying everybit of a beautiful day. At the wishing well we ran into Bev and Chris whom we had passed going up Ione Sutter Creek Rd. Bev is training to become part of the Spinal Diagnostic racing team since she was "discovered" after the Mt Tam race. She was looking to bike flats for 3 1/2 hours straight not getting her heart rate above 130. Next day she needs two hours of steady climbing. We sent her off to do Omo ranch on Sunday and hope she is heard from again. As it was she pulled us all in at a steady pace to Ione and was last seen going off to do Irish hill etc. See you all soon. SWH |
| 11/11/2002 | 63 | Veterens' Day Pardee Special | Larry and Gayle, Steve M, Carolle, Richard B, Steve H, Ray, Michael K, Ed, JR, KR, Char, Lee (new), Bob P (returning) | Something old, something new. Some veterans, some fairly new, and one first-timer. Lots of men and lots of women. A large, mixed group showed up for the Vet's Day special. The "no-hills" Pardee route was the choice and turned out to be nearly traffic free. After a cold, wet weekend, today turned out perfect. Full, but warm, autumn day. Even I took off my jacket early in this ride. A good group of strong riders, some pushing the pace a bit and most talking a lot. Lots of different kinds of riding for everyone too. Paceline, slow and chatty, flying with the tandem--or Ray. From time trial to take-your-time, something for everyone. Out Marlette, Old Stockton, and Jackson Valley, you could probably hear the conversation from a mile away--everyone getting acquainted, reacquainted, or catching up. Bob Perez returned after a layoff of many years from Irma rides. Ray brought out triathlete Lee. Both are strong riders and seemed to enjoy some new territory with some texture to it. Steve and Carolle come as solo riders today to stretch their legs or lungs as the mood struck, leaving the Hayes tandem the lone entry in that category. We came across a large Stockton group, doing the same route in reverse. Beautiful day, lots of good riding, chat and laughter among the diners. What's an Erma ride? This was one. (EH) |
| 11/5/2002 | 30 | Daffodil Hill Shake Ridge | Steve H., Paul Molinelli | This the time of year where everyone disppears for awhile. Gene was busy buttoning up for the storm, SAtockton Boy is in Baja catching giant tuna etc,etc We decided to have a short pleasant ride before doing our chores. Much discussion up the creek road as Paul and I really are brothers of sorts. We discovered we both owned 1955 MG 1500's back when we were 18-absolutely the most gorgeous sports car of the fifties.For those of you not born yet this car attracted women like flies, especially when it ran. By the time we had swapped our driving and repair stirues (those were long) we were at the top of daffodil hill! Anice ride down followed by coffee and now we are ready for the rain. SWH |
| 11/3/2002 | 36 | Plymouth | Karen; John R; Pat J; Dave B | Today's ride only had 4 riders and "REX riders" out numbered the others 3 to 1. Karen on her TREK was the "other". There wasn't a lot of enthusiasm in the parking lot to ride a lot of miles even though the weather was perfect for a long ride. PJ, KR, and JR blamed the time change for not looking for "big" miles and DB did too much physical labor on Sat. to favor riding too far. So,to make everyone happy, we decided to ride to Plymouth and then turn around and do a loop thru Buena Vista. However, in Plymouth it was decided that a return trip was enough mileage and we even got super lazy and returned via Willow Creek for a grand total of 36 miles !! We had a good ride despite a shortish ride and will look forward to bit longer ride next weekend....maybe. However, it looks like the "wet stuff" is starting to move into Erma Country so maybe we would have been wise to have ridden more but it's too late now. See you on the road soon. (JR) |
| 11/2/2002 | 150 | Death Valley 150 (formerly DC) | John B, Ed (photos at www.bdigitaldesign.com/dv02/ and edhensley.com/dv02/) | The Furnace Creek Ranch was a wildly mixed bag of older, heavier golfers and older, lighter cyclists mixed with some groups of kids on a field trip and a few families. The "big ride" was all the buzz around the cafe, store, and bar. We were asked about it by our waitress and others, but the most memorable was as we were loading the final items--our bikes--into John's van in preparation for leaving on Sunday morning. An older couple in a huge dusty Yukon was parked next to us and also packing up. We waited for them to pull out. As they did, the woman rolled down her passenger window, poked out her head and asked us whether we had done the bike ride. When we said that we had, she half-asked, half-exclaimed in a southern accent, "You did that big-old ride on those tiny little seats?" Those tiny little seats did get smaller during the 12 hours we were out riding on Saturday. But on Sunday morning, we didn't feel as though we'd been on a ride at all. For me, I had less post-ride effect than from some vigorous Saturday rides that are only one-third to one-half the distance. JB had one of his best rides--under control and in the zone all day. He wanted to be in the front all day. In fact, he ended up pulling a bunch of century riders for most of 30 miles. I felt comfortable and took it easy, but that strategy did not prevent my typical post-lunch bonk (Larry and others have tried to help me through them before). The only thing that kept me turning over the pedals (slowly) instead of doing what I wanted to do, which was to crawl off into the desert and climb into a hole and wait for oblivion, was that my body had always recovered before. This one took 30 miles to end completely, but the last 45 miles were a delight once it passed. And the miles before that were great too--except for one other part--about 5-ish miles out of Shoshone, the 75-mi turnaround, we hit a strong headwind and were trading pulls and getting slower and slower. But just at the perfect time a tandem pulls up and invites us to hop on. We didn't hesitate. I had trouble with post-Shoshone bonk before. It's not a good place to lose energy. Immediately after Shoshone is a 12-mi climb to Salsberry Pass. I slogged up while John rode with others and chatted and then waited for me at the top. By then I'd recovered enough to hang on his wheel for the next 10-mi downhill. Then we caught another tandem at top of Jubilee Pass and screamed down Jubilee with them into Ashford Mills, the 103-mi checkpoint. A Dr. Pepper and some peanuts completed my recovery so that I could give JB a little relief on the 45-mi ride back to Furnace Creek. We picked up a woman named Stephanie at Ashford and pulled her along with us since her knees were hurting. It's always great to finish a ride feeling good and strong. In this case, I was ecstatic to finish the ride--period--given how I had felt 60-70 miles earlier. Since I had cost us at least an hour of lost time, we had to ride the last hour back in the dark (with headlights stashed at Ashford). I wasn't surprised that JB felt comfortable and strong all day (except his butt, maybe) but I was surprised that my legs felt as good as they did. Not even a twinge of cramp or fatigue in them. It was my general energy that crapped out for a while. We were both so happy with our rides that we pulled into Furnace Creek, took showers and went to dinner. For me, the 150 was a great ride (how soon we forget bonks) and my longest of the year. I was just as happy that JB opted for dinner and a shower too. The weather was good (not hot enough for either of us, but good), no 60-mph headwinds, no sandstorms, no ice, no snow on Jubilee, no rain. JB rode extremely well the entire day without a flinch except for a sore bottom toward the end. I mostly just sat in and held on. Always fun to ride with JB since we know each other so well. Stan, a guy from Conn who rode with us for a while, even commented on it, saying that we had a great "rhythm together." He also complimented JB after being towed for 30 miles into Ashford Mills that it was the steadiest pace he'd ever experienced. Thanks, JB. Next time I'll train. (EH) |
| 11/2/2002 | 56 | SC-Vol-Red Corral (or Aqueduct Rd.)-Irish Town-Clinton-Jackson-Jackson Gate-SC-Ione | Steve & Carolle, MK, Ray | Where'd everybody go? It must've been the vacuum effect after last week's big turn out for J&K's wedding ride. S&C arrived with their shiny new Trek tandem. It was not as cold as forecasted. In fact, it turned out to be a beautiful day. Since there were only 4 of us, it was one of those make-it-up-as-you-go rides. S&C were out to get their new machine dialed in, and MK and I didn't really care too much. In Volcano, I sat in front of the newspaper machine and saw the photos of J&K's wedding gracing the front page, "Me and Him, and my Schwinn." SCHWINN?!!! Who rides a Schwinn nowadays? I guess the writer felt that "Me and Him, and my Trek" didn't roll off the tongue as smoothly. Great pictures nonetheless. I decide we should head up to Red Corral just for the heck of it. As we turned left passing Aqueduct Rd., I said "One of these days I'm going to go up that road...". MK said "Why not now?". "Yeah, why not!" We told S&K we'd meet them at Tabeau and 88. So MK and I took a little shortcut up Aqueduct Rd. MK said it reminded him of when he and I rode up Pacific Grade earlier this summer. But for me, the pitch and incline of the road really reminded me of Anita's birthday ride in Spain going up to Lagos de Covadonga. Hey, Anita, you need to climb up this road! The gradient was almost exactly the same. Imagine doing this grade for nearly 7 miles with absolutley no flat spots for relief, and that's what a mountain top finish in the Vuelta a Espana is like. Funny how your body remembers certain things. The only things missing were the 90 degree temperatures, the cursing in Espanol, and the names painted on the pavement! The climb was only 3/4 miles long but MK and I really enjoyed it and will elect this option whenever we head up towards 88. It's not as hard as Charleston, but more challenging than Ram's Horn or Red Corral. We got to the highway before S&C, so we backtracked up 88 to find them. They were head downhill as we saw them and had just enough time to turn around before they zipped past us. I thought it was nice of them to wait for us. As it turned out, they were really out of sync. By the time we got to Clinton, it seemed destined that the new tandem would be another dusty conversation piece in the McGrath household. But after straightening Carolleís saddle, tandem life got better. A short stop at Billís in Jackson for a few more adjustments allowed me the opportunity to read the whole article and see the rest of the photos of J&Kís wedding. We all opted for the short route back to Ione via SC. Going back over Sutter-Ione, we traded pulls for pushes as we all worked together to get back to the parking lot. By that time, S&C finally got their bike dialed in. After only a 56 mile day, we thought of Ed and JB having just another 144 miles to go! We ate chips to your resolve and determination! (RC) |
| 10/28/2002 | 37 | Wild Squirrel Route | Steve H. Paul Molinelli, Gene, Joanne S., Stockton Boy | It was good to see Joanne back to use her good influences to elevate the conversation ie. less sex and more philosophy. Going up Volcano Roadwe were stopped by the road crew as they were scraping out the ditches (and taking a lot of pavement with them) and they wanted to warn us. As it was Stockton boy was so busy trying to avoid the scraper he went down on his padooli but fortunately wasn't hurt. This road now is going to make Hale Rd seem like I-5! The big topic of discussion of course was the Halloween Ride and the ensuing Wedding. My pictures were passed around and hopfully Karen has them now. The ride down Tabaud was slower than usual as there was a K-car abandoned beside the road and we had to hold back Gene before he could part it out. After fueling up at Bills we set off but Paul had a major flat going up from Jackson Gate where someone had dropped a load of nails. We still had time for coffee and stuff before heading out to do our chores. SWH |
| 10/27/2002 | 40 | Plymouth | Steve McGrath; Carolle Peacock | We left home thinking maybe someone might ride Sunday. 7:56am...still no one in the parking lot but the two of us. 8:01am Carolle and I depart for Plymouth. First thing we had to do was make sure Carolle knew how to ride her single bike still. After a few laps in the parking lot, I thought it was safe to venture out on the highway. We had a good ride, but not quite to the level of Saturday. I think it will be a long time before we top Saturday's ride. But we managed to have a good ride and spend quality time with each other, and try some of that "communication stuff". Hope to see everyone next week. SMC |
| 10/26/2002 | 50 | standard wedding route | John and Karen Rovane (groom and bride), Zorro (Ray), Martha Stewart (Steve H), Spiderman (Michael K), Tinkerbell (Cheryl), Pebbles and Bam-Bam (Larry, Gayle and/or Jim, Penny), Father Gene, the Phantom (Ed), the Sheriff (Char), Steve and Carolle, Chuck, Richard, Coconut and Jill (enroute), Michael A (in SC), with cameo by Chrissie in SC | Photos and more at: ermasdiner.com/halloween02/ as well as at ermasdiner.com/halloween02a/ (Richard's) STEVE M: Let me start this ride report with....WOW This is one of those ride's that had it all, As Chuck said, "Love", friendship, and a wide cast of characters.I can't think of a better way to spend my Saturday, and I feel so honored to have been a part of John and Karen's very special day. (Thank you) I continue to be impressed of how supportive and caring the Ermas group is, and I feel very lucky too be a part of this group. So here's too " Loving Life and Living Large" Congradulations John and Karen and thanks too all for the best Ermas ride yet....Smc CAROLLE: Karen and John...Thank you for letting us be a part of your special day. I am very happy for the two of you and hope all the happiness in the world for you. And a special thank you to Martha, Spiderman, Zorro, and the Cave People. And a special thanks to Larry for the boob shot in the parking lot. --Carolle McGrath CHUCK: Today was about love. We celebrated John and Kern's love for each other and shared our love for them. --Love, Chuck |
| 10/22/2002 | 47,40* | s.c. Daffodil Hill, Lockwood Fiddletown New Chicago, Turner RD | S. Honeychurch, Paul Molinelli, Stockton Boy, Gene* | We changed our start time to 9 which is fortunate as refrigerator rd. is beginning to live up to expectations.We met Gene at Volcano as he had ridden from Westpoint. The K-car was in the hospital again or hospice might be the more approprite term. Deep philosophical discussions ensued-you knowthe kind-The existence of god, is there sex after death etc.. From Fiddletown Gene returned home to chop wood while the rest of us had a magnificant ride down with all the fall colors and aromas of burning wood.. After refueling in Plymouth New Chicgo didn't seem so steep but Turner Road does have a lot of deceiving climbs. This is a ride we should all do more often on the weekend. SWH |
| 10/20/2002 | 50 | Saturday's Coffee ride on Sunday | Steve McGrath, Ray Righetti, and Tim ? | I got to the parking lot around 7:35am to find nobody there? My thought was that the time at been changed to 9:00am. So, while I waited I thought Carolle had a good idea when she decided too sleep in. At 8:00am Tim and Ray showed up, and we decided to ride to Volcano. When we got to Sutter Creek Ione Rd. Tim headed back, Ray and I continued up to Sutter Creek then up the creek Rd. to Volcano.I was glad I left my arm and leg warmers on. We pushed a strong pace up Rams Horn then the chase was on down Shake Ridge Rd. Ray and I enjoyed some fast pace lines, great weather and very little traffic on the road. Another great day for cycling in Amador County..... Smc |
| 10/19/2002 | 103 | Foxy Fall Century | Larry and Gayle Hayes, Jim Gray, Steve and Carolle McGrath | We met in the high school parking lot at 7:00am, with long fingered gloves and jackets,we waited for Chuck to show up.....after about 20 minutes we headed out thinking Chuck had gotton a head start on us. We had a very cold start, Carolle was eyeing Larry's jacket for a couple of miles, and being the gentelmen that Larry is,he stopped and gave it to her to wear. All was good on the back of our tandem, as Jimmy says " You need to have a happy stoker" he was right, after she got the jacket she quit shivering and could pedal again. After about 20 miles Larry was ready to pick up the pace, we had a great pace line to the first rest stop. We refueled and headed on, getting Tandem lessons and pointers from Jim and Larry (thank you). We got to the turn off for the 65 mile route, we all decided to do the full 100 mile route. I forgot to tell Carolle I wanted to do the 100 mile; I guess this is where you're supposed to communicate with each other. We made it to the lunch stop by 12:00. With most of the climbing behind us, we headed home on some nice flat roads, and no wind to fight all day. Once back at the car Carolle was glad she did the 100 miles. We all had a great day, lots of laughs, and great company. We never did catch up with Chuck..... (Steve McGrath) |
| 10/19/2002 | 77, 60 | completely non-standard coffee (SC, Jackson, Butte, Tabeau, Volcano, Shake, WC, IH | 77: Ray, Michael K, Ed; 60: Steve H, Gene, Dave B, Coconut Al | PJ is in Paris. JB is babysitting. SS and JS are in Hawaii. AH is getting new carpet. Bev and Chris rented out their house for a yoga retreat. And The Elephant is no more to be seen. But MK is back from back trouble. Dave B showed up early and eager--and Gene showed up too--eager at least (and his car worked this week). (Coco met us from home on Sutter-Ione.) We couldn't decide on a route. Michael said he'd go along with the group. That was his first mistake--that and not wearing a down parka. The parking lot was chilly. We decided to do an increment ride--ride to the next stop and see how we feel. At Sutter Creek, we were much warmer but not very peppy. When Ray asked me where I wanted to go, I was honest. The coffee house. He suggested we ride over to Jackson and visit the long-neglected Elephant. Well, we neglected it so long that it's no longer there. The owners sold it. It is now incognito--no, that's the name: Incognito Coffee House. The new owners, Judy and Aloma, were friendly, allowed our bikes in and honored our coffee cards. As we were leaving Tana and Vicky entered and got Ray and Steve's attention. Steve foh-pah'd with some "girl" statement. Ray invited them out to ride. The story I heard went something along the lines of "You won't think I'm a girl when I kick your butts on a bike ride." Another reason not to miss an Erma ride. Then up Butte, Clinton, Tabeau, Ray and I aided tremendously by the triple espressos that are our new favorite drink. Over Aqueduct to Volcano, where Rosie invited us to her birthday bash on Sat, 11/16 at noon (we were there not too long before that, so maybe this route again?). Up Rams Horn, the talk about Lockwood turned out to be a bluff. Most of the crew hopped on the Ray Train while Gene and I rode in the detached caboose. Up and over Sutter-Ione was a different story with some strong pushing by Ray and a little by me. I have to get in some more training as well as some improved psychology about getting out and riding extra miles, so I recruited the reluctant Ray and Michael to ride Willow Creek and Irish Hill with me. By then I was fully warmed up and feeling good (only took approx 50 miles), which gives me hope I can do a DC in two weeks. Back at the lot, the three of us were alone to enjoy the chips Michael brought with our drinks and debrief. Ray pointed out that today made three hard rides in a row, so good thing Halloween's coming up next Saturday. The costumes should ensure at least a somewhat more recuperative pace. I'm sure Michael will appreciate that after being taken through nearly 8,000 feet of climbing on his return from back problems. (EH) |
| 10/15/2002 | 37 | Usual Wild Animal Route plus East Clinton | S. Honeychurch, Paul Molinelli, Stockton Boy | The mornings are getting chilly so we agreed we would start at 9 starting next week but this morning was excellent. Again we had hoped for Gene to make it but the K-car blew a turbocharger again so it,s not to be. Have we all heard this story? A liesurely ride up volcano road ensued. For those who only get to see it in a blur on Saturdays you ought to try this. Paul noticed our pace varied depending on thre conversation. ie. faster when we talked about Elk hunting in Montana, slower when discussing fishing in Mexico and about 3 mph when discussing sex! Don't want to miss a word! No dogs or squirrels on Tabaud or east Clinton-Try this deviation sometimes. We stopped by Bills to hear about "As the Ermas Turn" Soap Opera Stuff To complete the ride we all had our smoothies-Next week Lockwood Fiddletown and New Chicago-Turner Road. (SWH) |
| 10/15/2002 | 43 | Peach Pie Ride (Auburn-Colfax) | Ed, John B | Not an Erma ride, but one I think most would like. JB and I took off work for my birthday and did one of our long-time favorite rides. Start: Bowman, just east of Auburn. We rode, via Clipper Gap, to a friend's new house in Applegate for a tour. Then through Weimar and up to Colfax with a side trip down to the old Iowa Hill bridge on the north fork of the American River. Then down Placer Hills Road with another side trip down to the Bear River and back up. Then through Meadow Vista and Christian Valley and back to Machado's at Bowman to buy fresh peach pies for home and a couple of slices of mixed berry pie for post-ride treat. We found the route as nice as ever and the day was the perfect fall temperature (I wore only warmers and a vest and even took those off after a while). We want to organize a ride up in that area, including the full ride up the other side of the American River canyon through Iowa Hill and down through Foresthill. (EH) |
| 10/13/2002 | 65 | Hogan Dam and Valley Springs | Steve McGrath; Carolle Peacock and Jimmy Gray, Penny Gray, Karen Belvoir, John Rovane, John Hambright, Chuck Gray | Today was the maiden voyage for the test ride of a borrowed tandem for the McGrath's. Also a test of their marriage. ( So far so good!) Their first step to this ride was starting together on the tandem, and not hurting each other or running into anyone. Once rolling everyone had a freezing warmup curtosy of Marlette Street. By Five Mile the sun was shining and the true warm up was in progress. As we headed to Camanche Blues Store, Carolle had a little mechanical problem with her bike seat. We hit a bump, causing her seat to go straight up in the air. What a surprise!!! Once at Camanche Blue Store, I adjusted Carolle's seat at which time Karen told me I should install a button so when Carolle smarts off I could hit the button to make it go up. I told Karen that Carolle would enjoy the button too much and that is when Karen went into her impression of Meg Ryan in "When Harry Met Sally", the famous restaurant scene. Much to Chuck's embarrsement as the scene continued Chuck was forced to leave (Thank goodness Carol Gray was coming home tonight), no pun intended! When John Rovane was asked about Karen's Academy Award scene, John responded with "I hear it all the time". After everyone was done laughing and could get back on our bikes we continued on our way. As we made our way around Burson, we came upon some downed lines. And we got a lesson from our resident expert Jimmy Gray as to the toxic nature of some transformers. After being turned around due to the accident we were back on track headed to Hogan Dam. John R said as we were climbing through the residential area of La Contenta, "lets give the tamdems a good workout and see how strong the marriage is". All survived and had a good ride to Valley Springs. All was going great, Carolle had her whip out causing me to drive a hard pace when a deer jumped a few feet infront of us. Causing my heart to beat rather briskly!!! Being the slowest and last to decend to the wishing well, we had some catching up to do. Carolle on the back dri! ving the tandem to its limit we were able to catch the group. Once in Buena Vista, we had a fast pace line to Ione. Thanks Chuck for pushing us up the hills!!! It was a great ride, great people and a lot of fun. We enjoyed the tandem so much, we decided to try it on the Foxy Fall next weekend. SMc |
| 10/12/2002 | 74 | SC-Jackson-Stoney-Pardee-Campo Seco-Burson-Ospital | Ray, Ed, PJR, John B, Scott, Sarah, Jerry S, Steve H (35), Larry and Gayle (46), Bev, Chris, Coconut Al, Jill | This ride was by far the most challenging Erma's ride for me since I started riding with the world-famous diners. Ed had told me that it was going to be an entirely new route, so I was looking forward to it. We picked up some more riders en route to Sutter Creek and it was looking to be a beautiful mild day for riding. Ione to S.C. was the only part of the ride I would be familiar with. When we left Sutter Creek, it was a whole different landscape. Stoney Creek was a fun run, but I had too much fun, meaning I tried too hard to catch up with a Ray-led foursome and way too early in the ride. I knew I should have been pacing but it must be my "youthful exuberance" as Ed calls it that got the better of me. 15 miles into a 74 mile ride is no time to start building unnecessary lactic acid. Plus, John B. and I passed the Pardee Reservoir spot where everyone had stopped for a break so we had to ride extra miles to find them, using valuable rest time. After the Pardee stop was 50 miles of flats and rolling hills at a moderately good clip, ideal for training and consistent spinning. I tried to keep up with the pacing of Ray, Ed, John B, Beverly and hubby Chris, but the last ten miles my legs were giving out. Ray graciously gave me some carb gel and it seemed to help. Somehow I mustered up the will to stick with Ed, Ray, and J.B. after we split with Bev/Chris and I was very glad to see the parking lot soon thereafter. In a nutshell, this was a training ride and a great route for it, too. Well, I'm off to Paris for ten days (brother's wedding) so I'll be out for two weekends. Keep the pace! Ciao! (PJR) |
| 10/6/2002 | 70 | Irish Hill, Willow Creek, Sutter Creek, Creek Road, Red Corral, Jackson Gate |
Chuck, Keren, Ed (54), John, Cheryl, Steve H.,Steve McGrath, Gail, Debbie | Erma has long been part of my family and I appreciate being welcomed back home. But it was clear that Karen picked a route that would send a clear message to anyone thinking of putting his or her feet up for a while. Thanks for picking one of my favorite rides Karen. If I knew that this is what it takes to avoid another trip to Mt. Aukum, I'd have taken a sabbatical long ago. Like all families we have our cherished moments; today we had many. I was told I could not mention 17 of them in the ride report, given the family orientation. Suffice it to say the theme for the day, and perhaps the next few years is Living Large and Loving Life. Special events along todayís route included a training session in the ethics of tire changing, old friends, a beautiful herd of deer (sorry you missed it John), beginning of fall color changes, and how to recognize the early stages of Alzheimerís. Thanks for a wonderful day! (CG) LIVING LARGE & LOVIN' LIFE!!! This was the motto for today's ride, thanks to a late night commercial for "Enzyte - a natural male enhancer" which leaves JR & KB in stitches every time they see it! And it fit the day well, as we set off on this picture perfect morning. We knew trouble was on the horizon when, at the Irish Hill stop, Chuck was talking about male genital mutalitation - and, no, he didn't mean rings, bolts or any other sexual device. He's expecting his 2nd grandchild and this one a male who "will ride" according to Chuck. Congratulations and good luck! As the discussion was about babies and not devient sexual behavior, I became quickly bored and rode on! LIVING LARGE & LOVIN' LIFE!! Shortly thereafter, Cheryl flatted and apparently Women's Lib is alive and well at Erma's, as Cherl changed her own tire, almost completely by herself, despite the abundance of testostrone standing around. What's up with THAT?? She said, "I guess I didn't stand around long enough looking dumb." Geez, Cheryl, it always works for me!! I was not only impressed that she did it, but more impressed that it stayed perfect fo rthe rest of the day. You go girl!! LIVING LARGE & LOVIN' LIFE!! At Sutter Creek, Dr. Steve suggested a route change, so we headed up the Creek Road (minus Ed, who headed back to Ione) and then to Red Corral Road, Tabeau & into Jackson. I was amazed at how much road kill was around. All varieties of wildlife whose poor little lives were snuffed out in horrible auto v animal encounters. It was so sad. And no one was more happy about all this carnage than McGrath who cheered wildly at each squirrel carcus we passed, knowing that the roadway was now safer for all of mankind. LIVING LARGE & LOVIN' LIFE!!! Back in Jackson, Cheryl & Chuck made the mistake of checking our miles and realized that neither had planned for a 70 mile ride!! Oh well, too late now!!! Also, as we tried to find shade in the park, Dr. Steve took refuge in my shadow (geez, am I THAT fat???) only to realize that my riding brings term "women glow" to a new level. He said it didn't bother him; just reminded him of his old job. When I FINALLY figured how (duh) what he was referring to, I slugged him good a few times and I can only hope he has a good bruise to show for it. (Note to self: find new, better, stronger deodorant). LIVING LARGE & LOVIN' LIFE!!! JR had to stop in SC for dog treats while Dr. Steve & Cheryl got a jump on the barn. When JR, Chuck, McGrath & I finally got serious about home, we flew down SC/Ione Road and paced it down the highway w/all the boys trying to outdo each other's sprints. Me? I just sucked wheel!! All part of LOVIN' LIFE!! Back at Ione, Chuck realized he'd ridden so hard, he rode away from many brain cels and couldn't remember the combo to his car locks. He finally gave up trying and called AAA. Feeling inspired, and armed with the last 2 digits (because I overheard Chuck's conversation with Ed in S.C. earlier), I wandered over and played process of elimination on the car's keypad - to everyone's shock and amazement (and Chuck's pure joy) the locks clicked open!!! LIVING LARGE & LOVIN' LIFE!!! (KB) |
| 10/5/2002 | 110 | Tour of Tehama, 5600 vertical feet of total elevation gain in 110 milesLarry & Gayle Hayes | We left the city park in Red Bluff at 6:50, wearing only shorts and the coveted Ermaís jersey; it was going to be a good day. The first 60 miles of the ride was relatively flat, at the lunch stop we had gained only 1000í. The lunch stop was well stocked with goodies for every taste. The next 50 miles were some of the toughest miles weíve ridden on the tandem. There were miles and miles of constant 4% grade with numerous climbs equal too Slug Gulch tossed in for fun. We would finish one climb and expecting a little relief as we reached the apex of the hill only to find another climb even steeper than the previous. To Gayle's dismay we pushed the tandem up, two steep sections. Gayle asked if I was embarrassed to push the tandem rather than ride. My reply was, it would be more embarrassing to fall over because we were going too slow and didnít have the strength to unclip before we hit the ground. Her reply was ìOKî. The 85 mile rest stop was at the Payne Creek Store, ìMargaritavilleî not only did we have virgin Margaritas, there was a mandatory photo op with the official SAG vehicle at Hurst. On the outskirts of Red Bluff we had an encounter with Californiaís finest (California Highway Patrol), we were ticketed for speeding 50 MPH in a 25 MPH zone, riding while exhausted and Gayle was ticketed for following too close. The ticket was all in fun. The Tour of Tehama is a ride that is well supported and well worth doing. This yearís route was new for this year and the plan is the route will be reversed next year. The only draw back was the temperature, high 90ís and 100 miles of headwind and Gayleís right knee started barking at 20 miles (I think the saddle was too low). Will be do the ride next year? YES. (Larry & Gayle) |
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| 10/5/2002 | 70, etc. | Standard Lockwood Fiddletown Shenandoah | Ray, John B, John S, Al the Pal, PJR, Don C, Ed; ??: Gene (50), Sarah (60), Jerry S (60), Bev, Chris | "You're a monster," I screamed into the roar of the headwind added to the wind our speed was creating. John B was screaming the same thing. We were both screaming at Ray, who had just pulled us from Plymouth to Latrobe at 28 MPH into a huge headwind. The headwind was so strong that we didn't even dare stick our noses out in it. All I could do was glue my front wheel one inch from Ray's rear wheel and hang on, concentrating hard on keeping my legs turning over, trying to keep them from screaming louder than I wanted to scream. There was a lot of screaming going on in all that silence. John said that it helped drafting behind me, but it was still such hard work that neither of us had been able to take even a glimpse behind us. Now, as we slowed for the stop sign, we looked back to commisserate with the group and hear the yelps of joy and appreciate flood forward against the headwind. There weren't any yelps. There was no one there. We started with PJ, Al, John S, and Don back there, but the Ray Train got disconnected somewhere. In fact, there was no one in sight along that final straight stretch looking back toward Plymouth. John and I knew that anyone who gapped even slightly would not have been able to make it back on--not in that wind at that pace. The day was not all like that. The ride to Sutter Creek was slow and social. That's where Sarah and Jerry joined, after starting in SC. Bev and Chris joined farther up after riding from home on the creek road. Gene started with us in Ione after a long absence. So did his oft-ailing car. The ride up the creek was not as aggressive as some have been. Everyone knew what was coming this week. All except JB, who was fired up all day. He and Ray took a majority of the pulls and pacemaking. Most of us took our time getting to Lockwood after saying goodbye to Sarah, Jerry, and Gene. Down the Fiddletown Raceway, we knew Ray was not going to let a car pass him this time. Sure enough--it was a no-passing zone. With few exceptions, a car would not have been able to pass. PJ gets feistier with each ride, following JS on an attack just before the "finishing line" in Fiddletown. Even after pulling everyone the entire way, Ray prevailed. Same thing on Irish Hill, except that JB probably burned a bit too much fuel doing most of the early pulling. Al was the only one left on Ray's wheel at the final hill. Here's an example of the pace. JB had been pulling for a while and pulling so strongly no one wanted to go around. I was second in line, so down the final long downhill, just before the huge sweeping curve to the right, I pulled around. The only reason was that I weigh at least 50 lbs more than JB and besides I mistakenly put a 12 cog on my cluster, and this was one of the few times I could spin it. I swished us through the big curve, which is lots of fun to hit at high speed. As I passed him before the curve, JB had looked down at his computer, which read 40 MPH. JB and PJ were right in the mix til the end and probably made the mistake of being too far back and getting gapped. That was probably my fault since I had to pull off the pace. This was pretty much of an everything ride. Social, slow, fun, along with very fast. Bev and Chris were right in there down Fiddletown and Shenandoah, but turned toward Drytown to ride home. We knew Bev can climb, but she proved it by winning her division of the Mt. Tam hillclimb race. At the end of the ride, I realized that JB and I would have ONLY 130 miles left to ride in the Death Valley Double next month. Very scary. (EH) |
| 10/1/2002 | 37 | B.V Ione S.C. Stoney Creek | Steve H.,Paul M.,Steve M. and Stockton Boy | We planned to start at 8:30 but Paul wanted to get a head start. It seems he spent his entire 3 day weekend on a horse (or so he says) deer hunting (but where are the deer?) and could hardly sit. Later we would hear his tales of male bonding in Tanglewood Canyon..Steve M. was determined to catch him with our paceline he led and I thought he must be practicing for the Vuelta T.T. as he set a wicked tempo. Climbing up out of Ione we discussed the new vineyard going next door to "Vineyard Estates" and the economics (or lack therof) of another new vineyard sans water. Coffee at S.C was a leisurly affair before climbing up to Jackson. Going down the Stoney Creek time trial we set a new P.B. of 24 minutes and then worked on a rotating paceline home. Good fast ride! (SWH) |
| 9/29/2002 | 48, *38 | Ione, SC, Jackson, Butte Mnt, Clinton, E. Clinton, Clinton, Jackson, SC, Ione | Carolle, Karen, John R, Mike A, *Ed, *Cheryl | Ed and I met the group in SC for a shorter ride. Karen took a vote for Hwy or short cut to Jackson. We all voted Hwy except for Ed (the short cut is not faster). It was a fast blast down Jackson Gate to the park for water. Then up Butte Mnt with Mike A leading the pack and me trying to keep up, I told him we better wait for the group (so I could catch my breath). Mike and John led the way down the hill to Clinton. For some dumb reason I suggested we go to E. Clinton and around, as we made the turn onto Clinton I realized what was ahead. Karen and Carolle got a good laugh as they knew what had been suggested and figured I deserved it for riding off the front so much. Ed just wanted to know why, why, why??? I lost my senses and was just feeling a little frisky, I guess. As we made it to the turn, Karen yelled out to Mike to be careful on the turns He and Ed took off anyway, testing the roller coaster for it's momentum and g-forces. Clinton is always fun with rolling hills, great for pacelines and keeping the mo going. Ed and Mike took off like a shot for the sprint finish at the goat farm. There was lots of fast pacelining, mostly by Ed, pulling us up to the other guys just before Jackson, where we figured out how to get myself and Ed back to SC if we rode to Ione. The hwy into SC was quiet except for one annoying motorcyclist who insisted on trapping us to the side of the road on the descent. One more stop in SC to fix a flat (Mike), potty, refill water bottles and off to Ione. It was a another quick descent through the S curves. Ed and Mike kept the fast pace going (I couldn't keep them in sight despite how hard I tried). Karen and Carolle threatened to make me ride back to SC for sandbagging. I promised I would be more humble next time. It was GREAT to feel that good on a ride again. It was FUN FUN, and I will be back for more next week. Thanks to all for another good day in Erma Land. (CY) |
| 9/28/2002 | 70, 55*, 42**, 50*** | Sutter Creek, Volcano, Daffy Hill, Fiddletown, Plymouth, Irish HIll Rd | Ed, Ray, Mike K, Al the Pal*, John S*, Anita, P.J., Steve H, Larry H, Dave B*, Jill***, Cheryl**, Andy, Don C*, Robert* | Today was a great day to be riding with Erma's. Then again, when isn't it? Maybe when Anita's goodies are absent is there a feeling of incompleteness; her banana nut bread and blueberry cake were so good I made sure I got the recipes. Summer is gasping its last breath, to the dismay of Ed, who wouldn't mind riding in triple-digit weather year-round. I heard his crib as a wee lad was an oven, so that explains it. Yes, it was noticeably cooler, so this ride marked my first time wearing arm warmers, and I thanked my lucky stars I had them. I only rolled them down for the Daffy Hill climb. I counted 15 riders, but if I miscounted, excuse me. The largest group I've been with so far, and it made the Fiddletown descent exhilirating. It was also the first time I could not recall everybody's name, so y'all have to come back so I can learn them again. Strut-Your-Mutt greeted us in Sutter Creek and the main street was shut down for a while to allow for all the dogs and dog-owners to cross. Cute. Ray wandered over to the exhibits and booths looking for free stuff; Ed had to corral him back to the fold. A lead group went ahead to Volcano, with Ray leading the peloton. Since today was to be 70 and not 50 miles, I had to shut down although I love the Creek Road; it's so tempting because it's usually at that point the legs feels warmed up and ready to go, you know? Did anybody else get attacked by the black dog? Scared me half to death. Next time I'm bringing my tranquilizer gun. Daffy Hill was boring. Ed, Mike K., Cheryl, and Jill split with the group and took Shaky Ridge while the rest went to Fiddletown. It was the funnest downhill ride I'd ever been on. People were passing each other back and forth and racing and pacing and drafting all over the place. Ray did his thing in the final half-mile and broke out but this son-of-a-lizard and his buddy in a pickup at the end blocked the road and made Ray unclip and watch everybody stream by. No fun. All that work to get uphill and enjoy the ride down and to have this no-good keister mess it up at the finish is just pure injustice, is what it is. Ah, the humanity! Al the Pal and his buddies took off, leaving Steve, Anita, Andy, Ray, Larry, and me to meander through the beautiful vineyards into Plymouth. After a good rest and re-filling of the bottles with the magic ingredients, etc., Ray graciously pulled us for a while along a stretch of flats. Then we got to Irish Hill Road. I knew we had ten miles to go and I was still feeling pretty strong, so I took off. Whoops. Ray comes up behind me and decides to sit on my wheel and contribute to the embarassment of my burning out. He goes, "It's a long way when you don't know where the end is, eh?" Funny guy. A few more miles through suburban Ione and the smell of fresh baked goods coming from the tupperware... Al and company were there when we arrived; they left shortly thereafter. Ed and Mike ended up doing 70 and coming in five minutes after us. Steve said Sunday was picking-o'-the-vines day; hope it was fruitful. By the way, Ed got second place... you can finish this part, boss. (PJR) ED: Thanks for the plug, PJ. I took second in the fantasy Vuelta on PerformanceBikes.com. I'll send details to Cool List. Michael and I both felt better and better as we descended into warmer elevations, so after dropping off Jill and Cheryl in SC, we decided to do Willow Creek-Irish Hill and then add some miles on Old Stockton to round it off, arriving just as the pastries were laid out. Now that's good timing. Great fun sharing pulls with MK all that way. (EH) |
| 9/24/2002 | 36 | Red Corral Clinton, Butte Mountain Jackson | S. Honeychurch,Paul Molinelli,Stockton Boy | We delayed riding till 8:30 in hopes Gene could join us from West Point via bicycle as his vaunted K-car died again but it was not to be. We decided to do our usual plus a detour around Butte Mountain-well worth the trip.Paul gives us the scoop ( a waste disposal term) on who owns which piece of land with a lot of local history added. Next week we will do stoney creek starting at B.V-Come join us. SWH |
| 9/22/2002 | 63: (?) | Mt. Aukum Loop | Larry & Gayle; Jim & Penny; Chuck; John H; Carolle M; Karen; John R (63); Steve M and Jordan (?) | Nuts, didn't pick a "volunteer" to do the ride report so I got stuck again. John H suggested riding to Mt. Aukum so we left the parking lot just a little after 8 and it was good to start the ride that early since by the end of the ride the thermometer was "HOT" and heading for "TOO HOT" !! The ride went well but on Forest Home Rd. Jordan started feeling a little bad so that ended his and Steve's ride. Steve returned later but this time not riding but enjoying the AC in what became the team support vehicle. His support was verbal only but I'm sure he'll have ice cold Gatoraide the next time !After refueling in Mt. Aukum, Larry suggested Tyler Rd. but his idea was met by a loud vote of "NO" ....especially from KB and CM. On Irish Hill, Larry and Gayle showed great form and made JH and JR push harder than they had pushed all year. We definitely drained the tank but it felt good to feel the form coming back. Back in Ione, KB and JR announced their engagement and they are so appreciative of the support and enthusiasm shown by our good friends. (JR) |
| 9/21/2002 | 50 | Ione-Sutter Creek - Volcano & home | Ed, Ray, Coconut Al, Dave B., Sarah, Jerry S, Rit, PJ, Steve H; 30: John S, Al the Pal; bailout 6 mi: Michael K | I'm sure someone else will write a full ride report, but the Solberg's want to report it was a most welcome return to Erma country and riding our favorite route with a great bunch of cyclists once again. After our summer pasture in the high country, it is time to return to lower elevations where the hills are still plenty steep and the espirit de corp of the finest. Clear, almost crisp start in Ione with a promise of considerable warm up as the day progressed. We lost Michael K. early on Sutter-Ione Rd. when he developed 'mechanical difficulties' that even the expert field crew couldn't remedy. Quick stop in SC for water & to await the Kale support team, then on to Volcano. I got a comfortable head start, but was still left standing still by Fabio as the pelaton whizzed by me. Refuel & rest in Volcano with time for the mechanics to fix a quick Honeychurch flat. Warm heading up Rams Horn, but the sun was lower in the sky, so more shade than usual made it tolerable. I watched in wonder as the Ray & Ed train sucked up my headstart and barreled past me down Shakey Ridge. Back in Ione, time to relax, enjoy & catch up on life with the group at the end of the ride.....Ed received much expert advice on the "building a shed" project scheduled for the weekend. Thanks to all for the warm welcome (I think the muffins & fruit helped) and great ride! (Sarah & Jerry) No other report necessary except that Ray was in rare form on Shake and Sutter-Ione. PJ's new comfy feet allowed him to blast up the creek road. The Pal decided to ride with the group for a change. Coconut not only rode hard, but discussed construction and land-buying tips at the same time. Dave B? He was too far out in front for me to know. Good ride, good fun. Thanks, Sarah, for the food and beverage service. (EH) |
| 9/21/2002 | 982 | Two weeks on Western Express Trail | Richard Behling, Scott T | What a vacation! Scott and I returned home Sunday evening, Oct 6th, from a successful and memorable trip. I have not yet distilled the experience into an easily digested form, although I was asked about it by everyone in the office on Monday, including the three very interested cyclists. As a way to partially share the experiences with my coworkers I daily sent a postcard from the road; all the ones they received were taped up on the wall by the timeclock. One more card came Monday - three more to come. One woman said she didn't read any after the second one (about being clipped on US 50 in Fallon), but now that I was back, alive, she could read the rest. This trip was my first annual stage in riding across the United States from coast to coast - a thirty-year-old dream that finally hatched into reality last fall with the acquisition of a new touring bike and laying out an ambitious training schedule. Its three parts were: 1) three nights acclimatizing to altitude at Lake Tahoe; 2) riding with thirty others across Nevada with the commercial tour One Awesome Tour - Bike Ride Across Nevada (OATBRAN) supported by TGFT Productions out of Lake Tahoe; and 3) continuing for a second week across southern Utah supported by relatives in two vehicles. OATBRAN XII was wonderful. It was well organized and staffed by great people. About a third of the riders were returnees. The accomodations, showers, meals, rest stops, and tech support were all terrific. The riders could concentrate on their bikes, bodies, and scenery. The weather was cooperative, giving us mild temperatures, clear skies, and plenty of tailwind. That week gave Scott and me the self-confidence to pedal the steeper, higher mountains of Utah. We had advance information about inclement weather in Utah. The Saturday OATBRAN returned to Tahoe, Scott and I rode to Milford, Utah over three passes. The day started out well enough but soon clouded up and started blowing a strong south wind. The powerful crosswinds through the basins were kind enough to turn slightly and help us over the two higher passes. As we approached Milford, the storm (actually a week-long storm system from the south) brought clouds trailing curtains of rain over us. Sunday afternoon we fought a headwind all the way to Cedar City. Every day brought cold or wind or rain or thundershowers or hail or snow - or a combination of those elements. As a consequence I discovered the inadequacies of my tent, raingear, and cold weather clothes. But to compensate, Scott's grandparents and my dad arranged motel rooms every night but one. The hot showers, hot dinners, and soft warm beds fortified us with the courage to continue. Only twice did we cut the mileage short because of snow, rain and wind. Wednesday (after climbing to 9,400 ft. and descending to Capitol Reef NP) we were sagged 74 miles due to physical and mental exhaustion. I just about froze my nose, ears, fingers, toes, carrot and onions (no, the multicolored toe socks could not have prevented that!); Thursday we accepted a 15 mile sag past another snow shower at 7,000 ft. The rest of Utah we pedalled. And what grand scenery it offered! I used up three disposable cameras in Utah. Coal Creek Canyon out of Cedar City was our longest and highest climb (to 10,500 ft) but had extremely interesting geological formations. Cedar Breaks Nat'l Monument (NM), Bryce Canyon Nat'l Park (NP), Escalante-Grand Staircase NM, Boulder Town, Capitol Reef NP, the White River, the climbs to Blanding, the Moab area, and Arches NP were spectacular in their own unique ways. Our relatives also truly enjoyed the sights and impressions of the week. Passes of any height did not faze us; Scott was completely healed of his fears regarding riding with traffic; we learned some techniques for riding in the cold; and we covered almost a 1,000 miles. In Moab we rode out to Slickrock Campground and looked up our OATBRAN tech support, Glen Miyata, from the week before. He was pleasantly surprised to see us, we chatted for a few minutes and took a couple pictures. That signalled to me the official end to our ride across Utah. Everyone at work wants to know, "What's next?" Who knows? ... but somewhere along the line I'll be riding solo. Ed, thanks for checking up on me; Diners, thanks for the inspiration. Sometime, somehow, some pictures and a few accompanying words will make their way to a website for your viewing pleasure, to be expanded annually as my two-week adventures continue. Stay in the saddle and keep the rubber on the road (or on the ground, at least). Ride well. (RB) |
| 9/18/2002 | 73 for JW, JR, CB: SH ( | SpecialEvent: Mt. Aukum-Fiddletown | Jerry W., John R. Cory Botts (new rider to Erma Country); Steve H. | That time of the year that I can get in a mid-week ride and work on building up a good base and what better way than heading to Mt. Aukum....just tough enough with good mileage. Three of us started in Ione @ 9. Jerry Wier , just 2 working days from full-retirement, Cory Botts a Sac. Golden Wheelman who was getting an introduction to Erma/Amador riding and John R. We joined up with Steve H on Old Sac Rd.. Steve had ridden the day before and was busy getting his grapes ready for picking and was still able to join us for most of the ride.....and bring in some fresh legs so we old guys didn't keep Cory waiting too much. After refueling in Mt. Aukum we headed down one of Steve's favorite roads (Tyler Rd.)to Fiddletown. Steve and Cory "flew" down while JW and JR took it easy and tried to miss all those "nasty" ruts that are seemingly getting worse every trip! In Fiddletown, after feeding Chatter and Samantha , we headed for Ostrom Rd.. After Steve headed for home, we had a "dandy" ride back to Ione. Cory gave it a good go on Irish Hill and so did JW and JR but at a pace quite off the pace of the Cat 3 racer!! Good ride and if felt good to get in a good number of miles. Cory thinks Erma Country is great ..... his delight reminded me of Chuck Grays when he first started riding in our belvoved area. Cory plans on riding with Erma more and he will really like the ride up to Daffodil Hill and beyond. Happy Retirement Jerry .... he is really in fine form now and he will be impossible to keep in sight now that he is "free" to ride whenever he chooses!! (JR) |
| 9/17/2002 | 36 | Usual AARP | Steve H. Gene, Stockton Boy | We started a little late while Steve waited for his winemaker to look at the grapes (he didn't show up) but it was just as well as fall is coming. Starting up S.C.-Volcano Rd Steve's seat went into the lowrider mode in spite of the usual curs. ie getting a bigger wrench, loctite, toothpaste (non flouride). Finalley in Volcano after stopping numerous times to tighten it. Stockton boy showed his chevy mechanic prowess by beating the post with a rock to "burl" it. It certainly was that.I had been advised to get my post knurled prior to going to the S.F. Grand Prix but I didn't think that was a safe place to ask for that proceedure. A great ride down Clinton as we swapped stories about the SF race. Back to Bills to get more permanent repairs and on to the coffee house. SWH |
| 9/15/2002 | 101 | Larry Hayes | Where was everyone? I donít think I said anything about Omo Ranch Road, Highway 88 or Cook Station Saturday night at Steve and Carolle wonderful wedding. I did however pickup a little ESP from several of our group, the thoughts I was able to pickup were (KB) I donít want to, (JR) Iíve havenít been riding enough hills (SH), SF Grand Prix, (GH) No. As 8:00 approached it became evident that I would be part of a very small group consisting of C. Back, Y. Trek, C. Bar and myself. The first 35 miles of the ride was brisk, at the intersection of Omo Ranch road and Fair Play roads, C. Bar completely vanished and C. Back was running low on H2O. I wasnít worried, hydration would occur at the school in Omo Ranch. Y. Trek required surgery several weeks ago and showed no lingering effects. Itís been years since Iíve ridden in the hills alone, the sounds of wildlife in the brush, wind in the trees and the aroma of the Pines. Wonderful. I stopped for lunch at Cook Station, before heading back down Omo Ranch road. The climb was more enjoyable than the descent due to road conditions. I'm sorry others werenít along to enjoy the wonderful day in Erma country. Larry |
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| 9/15/2002 | lots | San Francisco Grand Prix | Lance, George, Kevin, Bob Roll, Robin Williams, Willie Brown, Ray, Al the Pal, John S, Steve H, John A, Cheryl, Ed | The day was one of those perfect SF days with a few clouds, some breeze, lots of sun and scenery. The race was spectacular. Lots of action, speed, color, drama. Also lots of celebrities there (see partial list above). We spent most of the time on the hill on Broadway, where we could see them climb (most in the big chainring) and scream downhill each lap. We saw Lance lead the peloton to an amazing catch of a breakaway, Hincapie's attack and bonk, a minor crash right in front of us. The final breakaway heading toward the line. We missed the final sprint, but Ray made up for it by getting at least two of everything that was being given out at the expo. Lots of freebees, including cowbells, which everyone rang like crazy. I hope no one was trying to sleep in that morning. All of us took BART (from Pleasanton or Pittsburgh) to and from town. I highly recommend it if you get a chance next year--very easy--not crowded at all. Apparently if you want a spot on the big hills (Filmore and Taylor), though, you better get there early. (EH) |
| 9/14/2002 | 50, 30* | Regular Coffee Route | MK, John H., Ed, Ray, Cheryl*, John S.*, Al the Pal*, Steve H* | Cooler weather? Yeah, right. A warmer start than last week, but only 4 riders showed up in Ione, but at least we all matched! Down to our Voler team-issue royal blue shorts! John H. was back with his new Orbea. We started out together, but John decided to stretch his legs and see what his new bike could do and rode off the front. Ed, MK, and I leisurely made our way to SC with no reason to rush. In SC, our numbers doubled when John S., Al the Pal, Steve H., and Cheryl joined the peloton. Right off the bat, John S. led Al on a break-a-way. After Al's Hide-in-the-Bushes-and-Let-the-Peloton-Go-By-and-Chase-a-Ghost Maneuver of last week, there were no takers for another wild goose chase, especially after John S. dropped back into the pack. We suspiciously checked every driveway looking for Al's new hiding place. Not until the 2 mile-mark did we decide to increase the pace. Upon getting into Volcano, Al was actually there ahead of us. I guess no hide-and-seek this week. Also no volunteers to take on Charleston. Going up Ram's Horn, those of us in the Autobus were treated to another leisurely pace. We traded the Autobus for a Bullet Train before heading down Shaky Ridge. But a potential head-on collision with a car nearly derailed us while rounding that right turn just down the hill from the Hale Road turnoff (okay, really just me). Even though I stayed in my lane and didn't cross the yellow line as the car went by, MK said I was close enough to change the pre-set stations on the car's radio. Strange. As I was going into the turn, I actually asked myself, "What are the chances that there's a car coming around that turn at exactly the same time?" Answer: Pretty good. Someone is watching over me. Even including the near-miss, it was my best time on the descent. I hit a max speed of 54.3 mph! After dropping off the SC starters, the remaining 4 of us cooked in the afternoon heat back to Ione (well, Ed probably wasn't cooking, just the rest of us), with Ed and MK doing all of the work. [Ed note: I seem to remember Ray pulling us all the way into Ione and breaking the speed limit doing it.] As usual, we lounged around the parking lot solving the world's problems over a bag of tortilla chips. Another good day on the bike, and Best Wishes to Steve and Carolle on their wedding day. (RC). One additional note: CHP officer Jim pulled in just before we pulled out and asked about our rides and described himself as a "wannabe" road cyclist. We invited to join us some weekend. (EH) |
| 9/10/2002 | 37 | Red Corral Tabau, East Clinton Jackson | Steve H. Paul Molinelli, Joanne Seaver, Stockton Boy | Another beautiful late summer day to ride, and Paul took on a new diviation' After our usual climb and discussing life with Rose we took East Clinton off of Tabeau which none of us but Paul had ridden before. It makes a nice change with rollers and is newly paved. We all made our plans for the big Sunday Gran Prix and hope to see many friends there. After a hot ride up Jackson Gate we made time for smoothies. SWH |
| 9/8/2002 | 44, * and ** TBD | Ione Plymouth via Michigan Bar and Carbondale | S. Honeychurch,Jim n Penny, John R*.,Karen*, Dave N. L. Weir *,Larry n Gail*,Dave B.** | This ride may not have covered a lot of miles but it covered a lot of experiences. Love those tandems! As we headed down Michigan Bar we heard loud desperate squawking (no not someones wife!) Karen and others spotted an owl who was impaled on a barbed wire fence with the barb going through the inside of his lower jaw and out the the other side. With considerable effort she was freed. See op. report at end of ride report. We devoted all these effort to take care of the owl and never noticed that Dave B. disappeared when we got to Plymouth. Those in front thought he was in the back and those in back thought he was in the front. So at Plymouth we decided to turn around and rescue him. We never did find him but one of the obwerver at Ione said he came in long before and and several flat tires. The ride back was memorable as we on half bikes tried to stay on the tandems wheel. Thanks guys.for the ride. Since it was still early most of the group went on to Pardee.Details to follow. Addendum operation report: Pre op Dx Impaled owl on barb wire Post op Dx same Proceedure performed Renoval of barb via mandibular incision. Surgeon S.W. Honeychurch M.D. Assistant Surgeons John R., Larry H. Anesthesiologist Dr Weir Proceedure: THe patient was prepped in the usual manner as an owl and Drs. Hayes and Rovaneexposed the affected area and the team tried to dislodge the barb by rotational maneavers without success. Appropriate restraints were placed on the wings and talons as the patient was found to be uncooperative at this time. Dr Wier then sedated the patient by placing a bandana around the eyes which was satisfactory. Since it was determined surgery was necessary a scapel was produced from an Alien kit. (you didn't know that it was usefull for this ,did you?) After adequate exposure by Drs. Rovane and Hayes and linier muscle splitting inciion was made from the barb in the center of the external mandible to the apex of the mandible splitting the cartilage with ease. The patient became free and Dr Rovane inspected the incision site and returned the patient to the PAR (ground) in good condition The patient immeadiately signed out AMA (flew away) EBL for owl 1 cc EBL for Drs Hayes and Honeychurch 5 cc Those talons are sharp! Dict 9/8 S.W. Honeychurch M.D. |
| 9/8/2002 | 72 | see above | see above | This is the second half report of the Sunday ride . Steve H. is reporting the events of the first half. After returning to Ione prematurely to find out what happened to Dave B. who never showed up in Plymouth much to the surprize of those who were waiting for us lantern rouge riders to come into town. So we headed back to check on Dave but by the time we got back to Ione he and his vehicle were long gone. A lung trek official told us that Dave had called it a day after one too many flats. I called Dave when I got home and he flatted twice. The first one came just as we turned onto Carbondale and no one heard his call that he was having a flat. Sorry Dave we didn't hear you but glad you made it back to Ione. Back in Ione Steve H and Jim and Penny called it a day while Jerry, Karen, Larry and Gail, and John R headed out 5 Mile Rd. and did a loop in the Camanche Lake area. Good ride made especially rewarding by realizing that one beautiful owl is now doing "just dandy" and enjoying life. Hopefully we'll see her/him on a ride and I won't be surprized if she flies by to say thanks. See ya on the road next weekend. (JR) |
| 9/7/2002 | 50 | standard coffee | Ed, Ray, John B., Michael K., Coconut Al, Beverly, Chris (new--Bev's husband), Al the Pal, P.J. Ramey, Steve H (35), Cheryl | Today I discovered that ten or eleven riders is a good-sized group to cruise with. Whatever the mood or energy level, there was a place for your pace. Of the four Erma's rides I've been on so far, this was the most enjoyable, probably because of a growing familiarity of the routes, but also because of the blend of speed, pacing, and friendly banter which characterized the day's ride. An early fall climate greeted us and many wore arm and leg wraps and wind breakers until they felt comfortable enough to go without. I know I'm going to need to go shopping for proper cold weather gear before long (any suggestions for shops with good deals?). Early into the Creek Rd. segment there was some signs of breakaway attempts but the majority of the group managed to stay in the pack and draft, a testament to the strength of today's riders. Eventually I could not see the lead group and decided to stay steady and pace with Steve and Coco. A meeting of the Porsche Club in Volcano made the trek up to Daffy Hill noisy and some glass on the shoulder gave Ed's rear tire a flat. Shaky Ridge was fun and fast, naturally, and as I watch the more experienced riders, I'm learning how to get a little bit farther up each incline before having to rise in the saddle and "ride through the summit" as Ed says often. Back in Sutter Creek, Ed and Cheryl got a head start and I soon followed; the rest joined us at the top of lookout hill (is there a name for that place?). From there it was a good fast ride back to Ione; the earlier steady pacing paid off for me as I finished strong. Salsa and chips were are reward; we sent John B. off with good luck vibes for his World's Toughest Century next weekend in the Sierra foothills. Ray showed us his tour of Spain pictures and humored us with his tales, including both Anita's birthday ride in Spain and Ray's "birthday" back here. Hopefully, there will be more groups of this size in the future; the more the merrier. (PJR) PJ didn't mention that Ray led a mass assault on CHARLESTON, including JB (with his new pie pan gearing), Bev, Steve H, the Pal, and MK (first time). I preferred to get a flat on Rams Horn along with Cheryl, PJ, Chris, and Coco. Great to have the Ray Train taking the lead on the faster parts again, but several others stoked the pace along the way too, including Bev taking a critical pull on Sutter-Ione. Rumor is that Ray might be on his way back to Italy for yet another bike--just to keep up with Hambone. Missed the coffee and Anita, whose bike was in disrepair, but otherwise, lots of speed and fun. (EH) |
| 9/3/2002 | 37 | Steve H., Joanne S., Stockton boy and cameos by Mike A. and his guest Tanya | We welcomed back Joanne and even had Michael A. and his friend Tanya to escort us up to Volcano. We decided to return to the original wild animal route down Tabaud and Clinton. We had many serious discussions of Tanya Harding, Paula Jones and WWF. You can tell this is a very intelectual ride. It was perfect weather as long as you were done by noon-we were. There was even time for the badly neede banana smoothies. SWH |
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| 9/2/2002 | 80, 50 | Standard coffee + Sierra Century | John B (80), John R (40), Karen, Cheryl (30), PJ, Ed (40) | Very enjoyable ride from Ione to Sutter Creek with John, Karen and PJ. It was a great opportunity to get re-acquainted (how long has it really been?) and do some information gathering about real estate in Amador. Even at Sutter Creek, you could tell it was going to be a hot day. A nice spin up to Volcano, a little test of the knee part-way up Charleston, and we all headed up to Daffy Hill. I went my own way on up to Lockwood and down to Fiddletown. There was a slight twinge in the right knee again, so I began thinking about how I might modify the ride. It almost became permanently modified with the final descent into Fiddletown. Just as I hit max speed, a dog jumped from behind a parked car on my left and came all the way across the street. It happened so quickly that the first thing I thought was, "Oh, good. At least he won't get caught in the front wheel." And as I braced myself for the thud from the rear, nothing happened. He apparently hit the skids and ducked because we never made contact. Lucky for him and lucky for me. I then headed up to Mt. Aukum and could really feel the heat coming on. I was constantly testing the knee as well to judge whether or not to do the Fairplay loop. At Mt. Aukum, good sense got a grip on me, as well as the heat (when the handlebars are hot to the touch, it's time to make some adjustments). I knew there was going to be a tough headwind coming out of Plymouth, so I opted to leave out Fairplay and Slug during the hottest part of the day, spare the knee, and head back. I went on through Shenandoah, Plymouth, and over Irish Hill back to Ione. 80 miles for the day, I was still upright, and the knee was feeling pretty good. A great day. (jb) |
| 9/1/2002 | 63 | Mt. Aukum | Dave N. Pat J. Jim G. Carolle P. Steve Mc. Char S. Ray S. (new) | We were trying to decide where to ride when Pat and Carolle said let's ride to Mt. Aukum, little did they know it would be over 100 degrees today (I think even Ed would have been comfortable) We rode towards Plymouth at a casual pace, about the time I feel like I'm starting to get back in shape and pushing a good pace, Dave comes by, smiles and rides away.(Two weeks off does not slow him down)we got to Mt. Aukum and refueled, filled our water bottles and headed home. Today we got to ride with Ray Sarkis (Char's husband) Ray is a very strong rider--even with a sore Knee, he is hard to keep up with, Char continues to get stronger (dam mountain bike riders). As always it's great riding with Jimmy, we all miss Penny and can't wait for her to return.(Get well soon) As for Carolle she continues to ride strong, even with all the wedding plans...Two weeks! Thanks to everybody for a great day. Smc |
| 8/31/2002 | 100, 80-90*, 50, 61** | SC training ride | 100: Bev, John B., Al the Pal *, Michael; 50: Ed, John H (with new Orbea); 40: Gayle, Bob K; 61: Steve H**, Gene**, Jill** | For the third weekend in a row John B. rode the full Sierra Century, including Slug Gluch, as traing for the upcoming World's Toughest Century. This time John Buuuurge completed it the old fashion way; he eeeeearned it, having developed severe knee pain mid way through the ride, John gutted out the rest, including the SG climb. Bev completed her longest ride to date and looked great doing it. She ascended SG as if it was a roller. Her only complaint was, "I just hate to get off the bike." We suggested the RAAM, that way she can stay on as long as she'd like. Al joined us a short way down the creek road, having missed the SC start time. He originally passed us in his truck going up to Volcano, providing a short, but fast, pull. I was glad to know that this was my last SC training ride. It was great to see Ed looking so well after having recently given birth to "Little Erma." His new svelte silhouette was missed after he and the others pulled off at Daffy Hill. (MK) Coffee Route plus Hale Rd and Irish Hill: The Saturday ride turned into a herd of cats at a dog fight taking off all directions at once. John B. was doing the first of two 100 mile this weekend and Ed and Michael following while Gene was still unpacking. John H. was showing off his gorgeous new bike,a spanish brand which may relegate Rays to second place in the styleman contest. Bev just couldn't let the men get away and rapidly followed and John was so stoked by his new mount he took off also. None of them were seen by us since.We had a cameo appearance by Al the Pal who was trying catch them in his truck at Volcano. For the remaining three of us we decided this was the day to introduce Jill to Hale Rd. She loved it, especially the downhill(smooth as a babys bottom) segment. A nice rotating paceline took us into Plymouth. While it was 99 degrees on Irish Hill because of the steady rotating pace it paased nicely without anyone bonking, We did think of all you macho types doing Slug Gulch today. How was it? (SWH) Standard coffee: John Hambone with his new flashy Orbea hot off the plane from Spain, and I rode the standard route at a quick clip. John was testing how his new bike shifts (his first with STI) and tracks--excellently. I can testify that it climbs very well too. It's one of those bikes that looks fast sitting in the car. Great fun with Hambone and very glad we did the short ride and were sitting in the parking lot as the long-rangers were starting up Slug. (EH) |
| 8/31/2002 | 87 | Larry's Plumas Ride | Larry & Gayle | The ride started at 8:00 Saturday morning with Gayle and myself. We were expecting the early morning route along the river to be on the cold side, as it turnout we started stripping at the junction of Rocky Point road and highway 70. The traffic was practically non-existent and no wind. The route across Sierra Valley was very enjoyable, even the climb up Yuba Pass was pleasant. We had a wonderful lunch at the cafe in Bassit, and paid our dues for the time spent off the bike, your legs were barking as we started up Gold lake road. The majority of the climb up Gold Lake road is exposed and it was getting hot, every now and then there would be a little relief with a gust of wind. I let it roll on the downhill reaching a top speed of 49.5 into the wind. We made a side trip into Graeagle for water before heading out again. It was decision time at the intersection of highway 89 and county road A17, we decided on A17 instead of heading for Sattley summit and the headwinds across Sierra Valley. The ride up A17 was hot. The ride ended back in Portola with 87 miles and 4400 ft. of vertical gain. (LH) |
| 8/27/2002 | 25,*12 | Sutter Creek Volcano | Steve H.,Steve M. Gene* | This wa to be one of those Route de Mechanics day. We started on S.C. route and Gene was having difficulty shifting and staying up. We thought it was because he had just completed a road race in Winters with the over 45 masters on the weekend. The two Steves came into Volcano and I decided to adjust my seat and promptly broke the seatbolt in half. (God I'm still strong!) With no Gene in sight we went back down with me in my lowrider position. We found Gene by the side of the road with a nonfunctioning derailleur and broken chain. Time to abandon ship. Steve went down to get his truck and tote Gene back. We all met eventually at the bike shop. Better luck nxt week. Hale (smooth as a babys bottom) Road coming at you.SWH |
| 8/25/2002 | 60 | Moke Hill route | Larry H. Jennifer H. Chuck G. Karen B. Carolle P. Steve Mc. Char S. (New) Pat J. | It was great too be back on the bike and riding with such good people. Today we had perfect weather, a great route and a couple of new faces, first there was Jennifer, this was not her first ride with the club but the first time I met her, what a wounderful young lady. Then we had Char join us, Char is a very good friend of mine, I worked with her husband Ray, whom I'm still trying to get out and ride with us. Anyway, she's been looking for someone too ride with, and Carolle invited Char to join Her and Karen on thier Tuesday and Thursday rides, they all had such a great ride Char decided to try today's ride, she is a very strong rider and a great addition to the group. We left Ione and headed towards Pardee Dam, Larry and Jennifer on the tandem where setting the pace(fast)as Larry usually does, we headed up Stony Creek rd, this is where I could catch up with the tandem. Pat decided to head back after Pardee dam, we continued on to Hwy 26 to Mokelume Hill. We headed back via Campo Seco tnkp, what a beautiful road, the pace back was mild, until Chuck decided to turn it on, and there was no catching him. We went through Campo Seco, once we where on Camanche Parkway everybody worked together in a pace line, this made the headwind tolerable. We made it back to Ione around 1:00pm, like I said earlier, it was a great day to ride and pefect company, thanks for a great day....Smc |
| 8/24/2002 | 50, 100 | Standard Coffee + Sierra Century | John B (100), Michael K (100), Ed (96), Coconut Al, Jill, PJ | Ouch. That's my summary after following MK and JB through the Sierra Century route (minus Slug for me). JB was focused on completing his second Sierra Century in as many weeks (doing the same next week too). Michael and I had agreed to accompany him, but it was one of those "who's going to flinch first" things. Well, Michael wasn't going to flinch, so I was stuck. PJ rode smart and strong on his second Erma ride--a quick study. Al accompanied him down the unfamiliar territory of Shake Ridge after we split at Daffy Hill. Jill had appointments so turned back home at Volcano. I felt fine at Daffy, so up we went. By the time I came to my senses, we were heading up Tyler out of Fiddletown and I was really stuck. We did have fun, joking, pacing each other, talking over every issue that came along. At Fairplay turn, I went straight up and MK and JB headed toward Slug. I thought I'd have time to rest at the school, but NOOOO--they showed up just five minutes after I got there. So down we went, with JB doing the bulk of the pulls--into headwind. He and MK shared pulling all the rest of the way back, both strong and me just hanging on and hoping to survive. John checked his computer and watch and realized that we had to speed up to beat his previous time by a half hour and his average speed by a full MPH. So from Irish Hill on we didn't even get to rest. We made the goal easily. Once I saw that parking lot, I thought it was a wonderful ride. I was very glad I did it with those two guys and they were willing to pull me along. Thanks, guys, for that and making it fun along the way too. I'll add anything that comes in from PJ, Al, and Jill, all of whom rode strongly to match JB's early pace with short stops. Oh, yeah, and thanks for the great night's sleep afterward... (EH) Coco and I split with John B., Michael K., and Ed (see above report) at Daffodil Hill, but only after we fixed Coco's flat. Fortunately, I had brought my pump since Coco's CO2 gun was not working and we were able to get the tire firm enough for the remainder of the ride. Since it was just the two of us, I learned some more about drafting, gear shifting, and technique on the declines. The route from Daffy to S.C. was a first for me and my favorite descent so far. Rolled into Ione after a strong ten miles from S.C. (PJR) |
| 8/20/2002 | 40 | Backward AARP with many detours | Steve H. Gene. Paul Mollinelli, Steve M., Stockton Boy | This was the"Hills are your Friends" ride with over 4000 feet of climbing in 40 miles. First Sutter Hill to warm up,China Gate Hill,Butte Mountain Hill, Tabaud Hill, Aquaduct Hill, Daffodil Hill-you get the picture. The weather was ideal except for the"Don't Let the Smoke Get in your Eyes" theme being played out because of all the fires. This was a male bonding ride while admiring the shapely female anatomy on display in S.C (both of them). Afterward we had time for smoothies-almost as good as avocado dip. P.S We did genuflect for at the site of the battle between Steve and the Squirrel as we went by. SWH |
| 8/18/2002 | 65 | Mt. Aukum by way of Fiddletown and Tyler Rd. | john and karen, chuck, larry, carol, john hambright, pat, tim (new) | The group paused at the end of Irish Hill Rd., looked to the west on Carbondale Rd. and observed two vultures on successive fenceposts with their wings extended. Not wishing to disturb the birds we turned east. On Tyler Rd. we passed over the new bridge under construction and then encounter fawns jumping into the roadway next to us; we stopped to let them pass. At the top of the soapbox derby hill on Willow Creek, we discussed Larry's suggestion that we should have CPR and First Aid training. Someone asked "why"; Larry said "because we're old"; Carol and Karen registered their objection and we all agreed they are young. Chuck said his daughter is an instructor and we could organize our own class. (PJ) |
| 8/17/2002 | 64 | Volcano, Red Corral, Irishtown, Clinton, Elephant, Stoney | Ray, Al the Pal, Chrissie, Ed, Coconut Al, Jill, Michael K., Steve H, Anita, PJ Ramey (new) | First-time rider P.J. here to report last Saturday's ride. Right off the bat, let me say thanks and props to everybody who was there for the fun and challenging ride. It won't be the last. About a quarter of a mile into the ride to Sutter Creek, Ed gets a flat and I'm thinking, "Boy, I hope I'm not bad karma." Ed replaces the tube and we set off up the hill (the first of many: "you're not on the American River Bike trail anymore, P.J.") when 20 yards later Ed gets another flat. Figuring the cause of the flats is coming from inside the tire, Ed has to walk his bike back to his car and eventually meet us at Sutter Creek, where he was able to fix the tire and ride the rest of the way. Fortunately, from there on out it was smooth sailing. The day was clear and sunny, a bit warm: Chrissie says "It's hot!" We all had our thinking caps on and drank plenty of fluids. From Sutter Creek we made our way up to Volcano, and Ray, Al, Coconut Al, and Michael eventually surged ahead to the top and I caught up with Steve, who stayed with me and we rode into town together. The peloton was right behind us. This part of the ride was my favorite, the pacing and then the challenging climbs. From Volcano, it was Red Corral, Hwy 88, Pine Grove, and then a fun fast decline on Irishtown Road, where I almost flew off into a nasty looking ditch at 48 mph but somehow swerved and survived. That was the fastest I'd ever been on a bike. By this time, hills were beginning to feel like mountains, and my initial adrenaline was going bye-bye. A little before we got to the Seeing the Elephant, my quads started to cramp up. Ed gave me some Emergen-C and Michael gave me pills: oh, great I'm "doh-pay" already. The rest of the gang still had plenty of gas left in their tanks (I heard Ray set some kind of time-trial record) so I rode to Sutter Creek from there. I was pretty tired at that point and the incline on Jackson Gate Road was horrible. I think I saw two slugs go by. But I survived and made it to Ed's car, which I drove back to Ione. Half an hour later, around two o'clock, the world-famous Erma's Diner riders strolled in, to the cheers of the roaring crowds--I mean, P.J. And after some snacks (thanks, Anita), I made my exit, suddenly grateful for this wonderful invention, the automobile. (PJ Ramey is from Sacramento and a coworker of Ed) |
| 8/13/2002 | 38 | Sutter Creek to Jackson and Back via Volcano and Pine Grove | Steve Honeychurch, Paul Molinelli and a guy from Stockton |
Regular Tuesday morning AARP Smoothie ride. We rode the standard Tuesday morning ride. It was a quick paced, no flats, conversation packed ride, with stops in Volcano for conversation with Rosie and a stop at Bills bike shop in Jackson for Gu purchases. It was one of those rides where you didnt realize just how hot it was until you stopped. It felt like an oven in front of the bike shop in Jackson. We capped the ride with banana smoothies at the Roasting House in Sutter Creek. Another great Amador County bike ride! (PM) |
| 8/11/2002 | 35, 62 | Stoney Creek, Sutter Creek and beyond for some | Pat, John H., Karen, John R. (35) Larry H, Scott, Ray R.(62) | For a "majority of those present and riding" a short but good workout was just enough. After riding Stoney Cr. to Jackson 4 of us decided to head on back to Ione via Sutter Cr. while the other 3 (Larry , Scott, Ray R) headed on up the hill to see how much heat they could take and how much their lungs could take the not so healthy air quality. It was a good ride and nice to finish before noon and go home and take a dip in the pool. See ya all next weekend for some hopefully cooler weather and better air.(JR) |
| 8/10/2002 | 50 | standard coffee | Phong, Ray, Steve M (72), Carolle, Anita, Steve H, Bev, Coconut Al, Al the Pal, Cheryl, Ed, Michael K | Some hot riding added to the heat of the day. Phong from Stockton joined us for first time and rode strongly. I think everyone was glad we didn't go to Lockwood. I certainly was. Hiking legs are not cycling legs. Lots of fun chatter and joking and fast riding. Most frequent topic: Steve M's "jersey" (AKA, his racing moo-moo or the Erma's Diner tent). I'll let Phong's note to the Stockton club tell the rest of the story: I did an Erma's ride with Al and Ray and have to say, I'm very impressed. They're a friendly, hospitable bunch. They come in varying skill levels, but all are strong climbers, and they're an animated bunch with good endurance to give any wannabe climber a good workout for his money! (i.e., if you want easy, there's easy....if you wann'a go hard, you'll have company as well--no lonely hearts!). Ray and Al are daredevil descenders and are unbeatable in the rollers, especially when they're together! I say we elect these two guys as our "climbing coordinators" and just ride with Erma's for our hill training since they already have the routes and rest stops worked out very well (that is, if they'll have us :o). If you guys don't like all that climbing in one d! ay, how about doing a half-ride with them at least? I'm ready to dump our Livermore ride in favor of Erma's--the climbs still hurt, but the beautiful surroundings make it so much easier to bear :o). I think everybody should do Daffodil Hill at least once! At the end, I was tired and toasted, but it was hard to complain since the scenery was so green, lush, and refreshing--an awesome route with plenty of bathrooms, water...and squirrels :o). Thanks to the Erma's crew for playing such good hosts! I had a great time! (Phong) |
| 8/6/2002 | 45 | S.C, Lockwood Fiddletown Turner Rd. | Steve H., Paul M., Joanne Seaver, Stockton Boy | There was fog in the morning which quickly cleared and we welcomed Joanne back from Italy. Much of the time was spent discussing plac3s we had been and things we had seen which made the ride seem especially fast. Joanned wanted the Turner Rd ride as she had never been on it-good choice. We had a nice paceline down Fiddletown to Plymouth where Paul met one of his work buddies. The fellow didn't really recognize him at first but his comment was "you look so purty" The climb up Turner was the coolist we have had all season which made the ride pleasant. See you all next week SWH |
| 8/5/2002 | 74 | Mt Shasta Summit Century | Jim, Penny, Gayle and Larry | The day started cool and not cold like it was last year. The pace was slow; we were taking in all the sights. The Mt Shasta Summit Century is one of the most scenic centuries that Iíve ridden. We kept waiting for the sum to breakout, there was a low overcast with a little smoke in the air due to the fires in Southern Oregon. The rest stops were sufficiently stocked with treats for every taste. We encountered only one problem on the ride. We made a wrong turn and did the second climb first and the first climb second. As it turned out, the mistake ended in our favor. Our first climb was about 10 miles long on a well-maintained road that ended at Castle Peak turnaround. The downhill was a ball, the drum and rim breaks got a real workout. On one of the steeper straight sections we accelerated to a little over 50 mph. I canít believe how stable the tandem is at higher speeds. After lunch we headed out for the next climb to Fawn Creek. The route traversed a bolder strewn canyon full of rapids and waterfalls, what a view. On the way up to Fawn Creek we came across an unusual phenomenon, another Erma rider, Anita she was descending while we were ascending. She was doing about 35 mph we were doing about 5 mph which didnít leave much time for anything other than a smile and a little shout. Shortly after seeing Anita it started to sprinkle, we decided to turn around if the pavement became wet. As we reached the 100-mile route turnaround at the Fawn Creek Bridge it started to rain in earnest, it was time to head for the barn; the only problem was the barn was 20 miles away. The downhill was a drag, wet pavement and downhills donít mix. We werenít prepared for the change in weather. The rain gear was back in the barn, I guess Iíll chock that up to lesson learned (carry rain gear if itís overcast). Our excuse for not heading up the mountain for the final 14-mile climb was the rain. If the truth known we had nothing left. I guess that was a good because riders were being turned back at the halfway point on the Mountain and the final rest stop was closed due to the rain or possible snow at 7600í. We ended the ride with 74 miles and approximately 9000í of vertical gain. The ride was a blast and weíre planning to return next year. Larry |
| 8/3/2002 | 64,*50,**40, *** 46, ****30, *****38 | Usual Coffe ride with many variations, ie Stoney Creek for the adventuresome | Steve H.,Ray C., Bev, Gene*, Frank*, Coconut AL,**, Al the Pal*** John S.***, Jill****, Scott T.******8JJohn S.** | We couldn't believe it would be foggy in Ione but sunny everywhere else but it was a S.F summer day to start. Jill forgot her shoes and went home to get them and met us in S.C.. In S.C we met Al and John S. and were a full ticket for the ride to Volcano.Ray and Steve pushed the whole way with a break hoping someone wouyld try to catch us but Scott turned back and Bev almost did it alone-more to follow on that.After disussing the days event with Rosie Bev shot up Rmms Horn with her new Seven (I knew she was a peerson of taste and culture) She later informed us it was fantasticly easy on her seven and anyone coul;d do it. I t was the consensus I must not have a Seven, mine must be a Six or even a 5 1/2 as Ray said. It was the usual pace line down to S.C and we caught up on everyones vacation and heard about Rays adventure in Costa Rica and Steves in MontanaRay talk some of us into Stoney Creek if he promised to pulle us home which he did.It was a pleasure to have someone new along-Bev but Anita she still doesn't make Guacomole dip. We did meet someone in the parking lot who heard about us and wants to ride with us.We should see him next week. SWH. |
| 7/30/2002 | 36 | Usual AARP (Wild Life Route0 | Steve H., Dave Rogers, Stockton Boy | The AARP ride returned to it's original form today without Gene. Unfortunately his K-car died with a cracked head and he is fixing it. Dave rode with us today and kept the pace down till we came down Clinton. From that point on it was a very serious pace line to Jackson. We caught up on all the news and everyones vacations. I had photos of the trip to Glacier and Yellowstone with panoramic views from the Beartooth Hwy. Three peaks 9.000 11,000, and 11.000 feet. This is a ride you MUST do! Afterward it was banana smoothies and solving the worlds problems. SWH |
| 7/28/2002 | 64 | The Aukum Loop | Larry and Gayle: Jim and Penny: Chuck: Cheryl: Karen: John R: Tim | Another good day to ride "The Mt. Aukum Loop" with a few modifications to the usual route (no Irish Hill and a return via Willow Creek). The ride up to Mt.Aukum was at a good pace but the ride back down had the "singles" trying to hang on , or chase down, the tandems ! Chuck ,who is in fine form, was the only rider to consistently hang on to their wheels. New rider to the peleton was Tim of Ione. Hopefully he enjoyed the day with ERMAS and will join the bunch again. Good friends, Cheryl and Karen ,had a great ride chatting and at the same time showing good form. Very pleasant day to ride with just a little Delta breeze keeping the temperature quite comfortable. Jim and Penny were victorious in the "soap box derby competition" on Willow Creek. The tandems, J and P and L and G, will be in Lassen next weekend and Chuck will be in Colorado. So to them, have a great time and we'll see the rest of you this Sunday .(JR) |
| 7/27/2002 | 63, 44, 36 | SC-Vol-Red Corral-Irishtown-Clinton-Jackson-Stoney Creek-Buena Vista-Ione | Armstrong, Heras, Botero, Beloki, Jalabert, Rumsas | A small turnout today. Anita's Bakery went back to Bear Valley, Ed is basking in the heat of the Grand Canyon, Steve H. is in Po-Dunk, Montana, no Coconut Al and Jill, no British invasion, and who knows where anybody else is. But it was good to have John S. back in the peloton to join Al the Pal, MK, and myself. Howard (triathelete friend of Al and MK from the gym) jumped into our peloton for a short ride to Sutter Creek. On the way up to SC, Coconut Al and Jill passed us thinking the start time was still at 9 am (reminder, if you haven't refreshed your link to the Ride Calendar lately, you may have old information). When Coconut Al and Jill joined us at SC, we gave Jill a 15 minute head start up the Creek Road. It was mostly tempo riding until Fabio, when Al the Pal decided to attack. I can hear the commentary nowÖ "ÖAnd there's an attack by the little Columbian! That was a cheeky move! He's been at the back of the peloton all morning, and has now decided to go!" "There's the counter by Heras and Armstrong! ÖWell Phil, this attack by Botero has blown the peloton apart! They're trying to close the gap but riders popping off the back!" "You're right Paul, it looks like Beloki and Rumsas are in a bit of bother and can't hold on. I think they've cracked! Yes, they've cracked! Beloki shakes his head indicating he's had enough." "The two Postal riders are closing the gap to Botero, but I think Heras is done! Yes, he's sat up! It's up to Armstrong now to close the gap!" "He's going to catch him Paul! It's amazing how Armstrong keeps ticking those gears over at nearly 100 revolutions per minute!" "Armstrong has caught him! Let's see now if Armstrong is going to have a go at it! No, it looks as though he's content to sit on the Columbian's wheel." "These two are absolutely flying up the hill! You know Paul, they may catch Jalabert yet!" "You're right Phil, as you recall, Jalabert once had a 15 minute lead on the peloton but that gap is coming down rather quicklyÖThey're under the Red Kite now, which signifies there is 1000 meters to the finish. It's going to be close!" "Jalabert is on the last straight-a-way that leads up to the final left hand bend that winds up to the uphill finish! I don't think he's going to make it Paul, because in just a moment, Armstrong and Botero will turn the corner and will be able to see him." "They're right on top of him now! He'll take third, but the stage has yet to be determined. I'd have to give the advantage to Armstrong. What do you think Phil?" "Oh, what a shame! Yes, it's over for Jalabert! It was a fantastic effort, but he is suffering like a dog! And they will catch him within sight of the finish! But right now it's Botero leading out Armstrong with 300m to go! ÖThey are in the final 200m and have just past Jalabert at the foot of the small climb to the finish as if to say 'Goodbye Ja Ja, have a nice retirement!' 100m to go. There goes Armstrong to the right of our picture! Botero counters! They are neck and neck with 25m to go! And, and...BLOODY &@#$% HELL! THERE GOES OUR PICTURE!!! I didnít see who won! Did you Paul?!!" "NO! $#@%* FRENCH TV!" "Our apologies, we'll have the results for you as soon as we find out ourselves. I canít believe this! The French Television people have really botched this up good! We'll be right back with the resultsÖ" Guess what Iíve been watching lately? You can figure out the cast of characters for yourself, but Jalabert had the 15 minute headstart out of Sutter Creek. Well, after all that, it was pretty uneventful. Beloki and Botero headed straight back to Ione due to time constraints. The remaining 4 of us went to Red Corral, where in fact Jalabert did breakaway early again and finally got a stage win. After all the effort, Jalabert did well to sit in the paceline down to Jackson, where we cooled of at the Elephant. Jalabert and Rumsas, headed back over the hill to SC, while US Postal took a leisurely ride down Stoney Creek before heading back to Ione. A fun ride today! I love the month of July! (RC) |
| 7/21/2002 | 68 | Mt. Aukum Loop | KB, JR, Jimmy, Larry & Gayle & Chuck | What a great day to be riding. I had heard that Saturday's ride was a hot one, but we sure lucked out with a nice breeze today - perfect weather!! What may have been a total kick-back, easy ride, was interupted by segments of hammering when one of us "did the Lance" and pulled away. The others just had to give chase. Larry & Gayle are too much fun on that tandem!!! Thanks for a great ride, kids!!! kb |
| 7/20/2002 | 50, etc. | standard coffee | Ray, Al the Pal, Anita, Coconut Al, Jill, Bev, Chuck, Michael A, Cheryl, Ed, Michael K, Richard, Peter and Susan (almost), Tom (sort of) | Ray's back from Costa Rica with coffee and beetle pictures. Anita's back from the Dead and so is Chuck, who never left anyway. Michael's back and not going again. Richard did 3 passes to add to his string of events for the year. Alan and Jill brought friend Bev--yet another English accent. Peter and Susan did not show up in Sutter Creek. See separate report below for explanation (we'll give them their miles for trying). Tom rode the same route but joined us in the parking lot for the picnic and to discuss his upcoming Rex. Michael A started late and caught up in Volcano. Did Anita stage all those flats in the parking lot? We heard Death Ride and Costa Rica stories as well as some perfectly warm weather. I think only Ray agrees with me, though, that we should have delayed the start to enjoy the warmth more fully. It was a good "warm up" for next week's trip to the Grand Canyon and great to have the Ray Train back on the tracks. Too bad Michael's shifters crapped out in Volcano and had to limp back down the creek and miss the fun on Shake. Cheryl also took the cooler route back and had an assortment of cold drinks, including beer, waiting for us when we got back. We closed the parking lot with drinks, chips, and Anita's coffee cake--until the Ione street party took over, run by our new best friends among the downtown merchants. What a perfect send off--great company and excellent hard riding--only took me 25 miles to warm up. (EH) riders: Peter, Susan miles: 8 plus 26 routeevent: Great Plymouth Tow-Truck Tour report: Saturday morning and we were all set to join Erma's for coffee in Sutter Creek, then up to Volcano and points East. Susan was very excited, this being only her 4th organized ride and her first Erma's ride. About 8.2 miles from Plymouth on Hwy 16 we heard a ghostly whine, like an old-fashioned siren. It quickly grew louder as we realized it was in front of us, in our car. The smell of burning wires, all the lights on the dash and we knew our ride plans were altered. I coasted into a patch of shade on the shoulder, took down the tandem, tried to cheerfully put the best face on things and we headed out on the bike. We got to the Plymouth-Ione-Sutter Creek split about 9:15 and I knew we had missed our ride connection. On into Plymouth to call a tow truck, who met us at the gas station and drove us back to the truck (interesting looks from the patrons as we loaded our bike onto the tow truck. I told one smirking guy, yeah, I got a flat and I just didn't want to take any chances.") You probably already know this, but I just learned: Triple-A basic sucks. Pay the $75 a year for Triple-A Premium. After 5 miles it was my nickle (actually, $4 per mile) so I had him drive us $80 worth - all the cash I had. He dropped us at the Hazel Ave. Park n' Ride. We parked and rode on down the trail and home, all 26 miles. I'll collect the car some time today with my own handy tow chain. Adn we'll be back to ride with Erma's again, some day. (PS) |
| 7/16/2002 | 40 | Sutter Creek, Volcano, Mc Graths Grade, Jackson, Sutter Creek | Steve Honeychurch, Al Quiroz, Paul Molinelli | Steve asked me to submit this so he could get ready to leave Thursday for his two week bike ride in Montana, which if nothing else, is going to scenically beautiful and cool. Steve and I left Sutter Creek and got about two miles out when Steve got the first of three flats. I finally rode back to Sutter Creek and then drove my car back to pick Steve up. When we got back to the parking lot in Sutter Creek we found Al the Pal had showed up, so after Steve got his tire repaired the three of us set out. The ride was medium paced,with a lot of discussion about the Death ride and the too hot temperature. In spite of the flats and the delay, the ride as usual, was totally enjoyable. Paul |
| 7/14/2002 | 40 | Plymouth and back | Hambone, PJ, Karen, John R, Cheryl, Ed | If talking on a ride can give you energy, we were all energized. Thanks for a great day on the bike. The pace was leisurely but pace lines did form spontaneously. Great variety and time for reflection.More great days are ahead thanks to medical science and psychic energy. :) (JH) |
| 7/13/2002 | 129, 80* | Death Ride | Scott, Dave N, Michael K, Sarah, Jerry, Anita, Andy, Vic, Chuck, Larry H, Steve H . . . | LARRY HAYES: The 2002 Death Ride was the toughest of the previous 8 that I've completed. I'm not sure why; it could have been the heat, lack of training, or possibility I rode just a little to hard. If it wasn't for an hour-long break (2:15- 3-15) at Turtle Rock, I don't believe I could have completed the ride. Gayle and I spent the week prior to the Death Ride at Turtle Rock. One of the highlights of the week was climbing Ebbetts on the tandem. Next year we may try for 3 passes on the tandem. MICHAEL KALE: Saw lots of people, lots of bikes, lots of scenery. Heard lots of voices, lots of blood pounding in my eardrums, lots of wind rushing by, lots of water flowing by. Smelled lots of sweat, lots of trees, lots of brakes. Touched lots of saddle, lots of handlebar. Tasted lots of fig newtons, lots of bagels, lots of cliff shots, lots of flavored water. All of my senses were bombarded to full capacity. Glad I did it, glad it's over. STEVE HONEYCHURCH*: (Moniter and Ebbettts) Going up from Plymouth to Markleevile, you knew it was going to be hot when it was 62 degrees in Fiddletown but 76 degrees at Cooks Station at 3 a.m. I was delayed when the truck in front of me decided to turn upside down and hit a tree. After checking the guy out and cleaning up the road of debris I went to Kays resort to call in 911 while all the yuppies where wondering why their cell phones don't work. Hello. I must have just missed the group at 5;30 and spent most of the day catching up. Saw Anita and crew at Topaz (who started that fire?) We all got stopped going up Moniters east side while the medivac helicopter took away the hapless rider who augered in after he got the "shimmies". Met up with the crew again at the Ebbetts rest stop going up and I saw the girl in the purple helmet some of our cohorts admired-cradle robbers! The dreaded leg cramps began about 2/3rd of the way up and never would go away. At the top of Ebbetts Michael, Larry Chuck and I headed down. The best part of the day was having Michael pull us in a fast pace line all the way to Markleeville with a few reliefs from the rest of us. It was great to ride as a club--particularly a fast club along the river passing most folks and having them grab on if they could. For me it was time to quit and head for Whitefish Montana. |
| 7/10/2002 | 25 | Chili Pepper bike trail | Pat, Ed, PJ (from Ed's office) | Since we're reporting on our training rides, Pat and I had arranged to ride this week and decided to go through with it even though the heat set a record by 5 degrees--112--and we set the ride for the hottest part of the day--2:30-4:30. I need the heat training for the Grand Canyon trip this year. Pat was game to give it a go. PJ checked the air quality and found that it was only unhealthful for "sensitive people" so decided we'd probably live. We did. We did fine. Had the bike trail mostly to ourselves. 112 degrees makes a Jamba Juice taste mighty good. Pat may become a desert rat yet. (EH) |
| 7/7/2002 | 65: (?) | Mt.Aukum Loop | Chuck, Pat, Steve M, Carolle, Al, Dave N, Jim, Karen, John R(65): Gail and Debbie(?) | "The Mt. Aukum Loop" was once again a ride suited perfectly for the needs of today's peleton .... just enough miles and just tough enough riding for those heading to Markleeville next weekend and for those riders striving to get back into form. The weather was ideal, the traffic light, and we finished before it got too hot. On the pull up to Mt. Aukum the peace and tranquility was interupted by the horn of a motorhome approaching from behind. The horn did have a more pleasant tone than most and we were pleased to see the occupants were the Hayes .... Gail, Larry, and "Noel". In the Mt. Aukum Store parking lot we celebrated Larry's 53rd B_Day thanks to Chuck who got Larry two HOSTESS cupcakes with candles-a-blazin !!! After a nice visit we said goodbye to the Hayes and had a good run down to Plymouth. Didn't plan on giving it a good go on Irish Hill but somehow that stretch always gets everyone fired up. Al and Dave got off the front, followed by Chuck, Jim, and JR. We all know the form Dave has, well Al was really strong and Chuck and Jim did their best to get JR into a "bit of a bother" !!! Dave N is in TOP form as are Al, Chuck, and Jim. Steve M is coming back to form and after a couple more rides will be back in the front of the bunch. The rest of us domestiques are getting back to good form and look forward to next weekend's ride. Karen has convinced Pat to come out again next weekend since "all the hammerheads will be in Markleeville !!" Good riding to all ....especially to those heading for Markleeville. (JR) |
| 7/6/2002 | 50, 40*, 20** | standard coffee | Michael K, Steve H, Cheryl*, Ed, Dave B, Don S, Steve M**, Carolle**, with cameos by Coconut Al and English Louise as well as Rosie and Canonball Run | Don donned his new jersey for its debut ride and we headed uphill, after hearing Steve's (unbelievable) Trek story. At SC, the group was in a casual mood, so we took a longish coffee break, lounging on the porch, catching up. Steve fooled us all by taking of toward Volcano and then hiding around the corner to grab Carolle and turn back to Ione--all part of his recuperation plan. Good to see him feeling riding well and with a good attitude. Cheryl started in SC and joined us well down on S-Ione. The coffee got us up the creek with a good pace. In Volcano, we managed to find Rosie among the Canonball Run crowds. Steve and Don were in their element, talking about 357-caliber carburators or something like that. My bike felt right at home among all those vehicles painted with flames. Down Shake at a very good pace and then S-I too, we ended feeling that we'd had an excellent workout as well as a good relaxing time--all topped off with the cold watermelon that Cheryl had remembered to pack in my car. Good riding to all the Death Ride riders. (EH) |
| 7/5/2002 | 98.43 | Bear Valley to 395 and back | Anita, Michael A. | Location, location, location...is important when buying a house, but equally important when riding 4 of the Death Ride passes and Pacific Grade unsupported! The three gallons of water that were dropped on the 4th were perfectly placed for Friday's ride with not a drop to spare. Friday was a pleasant day as many people pulled out of the Bear Valley Death Ride Training Camp parking lot. Only two of us were headed to 395 hoping the weather wouldn't get too hot. With my pockets filled with more bars and gu than I eat in a month of riding, we started the long trek that Ray and Michael K. completed the previous week. The lakes were glistening like diamonds, not too many holiday travelers on the road and only a handful of cyclists as well. I made the final decision at the top of Moniter to go down the backside not really sure the entire way down if it would turn out to be a good idea. The firefighters were dining outside on the picnic tables at 395 and were happy to share not only their delicious well water but also some homemade german chocolate cake! It was only hot for the first three miles up the backside and then a nice breeze kept us comfortable the rest of the way up. We watered up again three miles down Moniter and again at Silver Creek Campground. That's when I started counting in my head the total uphill and downhill miles we needed to ride before getting back home. I think we spent 8 hours and 54 minutes in the saddle...the end of training camp til next year! (AH) |
| 7/4/2002 | 30 | Sutter Creek-Volcano loop | Larry Robinson, Bob Dahlquist, Al the Pal, Steve the Doc, Ray the Train, Ed | Ray and I casually decided to ride and mention it to the list. Are we glad we did. A perfect turnout for a perfect start to Independence Day. Casual start at 9:00; thus we got Bobby the D, even though a bit late, and Larry the R. A couple of guys who haven't been out for a while. Great group, lots of chat. Good paced ride, so good exercise without pushing (except aboard the Ray Train down Shake, of course). We all felt invigorated to finish fresh at the coffee house and share photo albums, coffee, Tour de France speculations, tips for Ray on his trip to Costa Rica. Lots of discussion and joke topics during the ride: long-horns, pork chops, strange asses in your bed, Rosie's anatomy, Ray's personal Death Ride, Larry's advice on marketing ("Pork Rinds: the other white meat"), socks, Sachs, and Sacks, as well as Siddartha and Twain. Steve's off to tour the Sun. Ray's off to Costa Rica. Bob's off to BobsHaus.com. Larry's off to pick up Yvonne at Macy's. Al and I aren't going anywhere and plan to ride on Sat. Great fun. Thanks, guys. (EH) |
| 7/4/2002 | 84 | 4th of July deathride training | Chuck & Larry | At 5:30 am Gayle decided she would rather catch on her sleep than going for a little ride (the plan was for a short 50 mile ride). I believe she is aware of how Ermaís ride can grow. Chuck and myself headed for Volcano by way of Stoney Creek, Clinton, Tabeaud, with a stop at Carolle and Steve's beautiful home for water and to harass Carolle and Jordan for not be ready to ride when we arrived. You next stop was in Pine Grove's Deli for a Turkey sandwich. We were hoping to come across other Erma riders in Volcano; I guess we were a little late. In Volcano it was decision time, down the creek road of up Rams Horn to Lockwood Junction. Being that was an Ermaís ride the decision was up. Chuck decided to hit Rams Horn hard, his time wasnít his best, however it was good. I wish I could climb half as well as Chuck. The trip down Fiddle Town road could have been disastrous. Four Turkeys and a bicycle donít do well at 35 MPH. Chuck had a near encounter on one of the curves near Fiddle Town; it was a chase of swerve and duck. The ducking part almost worked, the Turkey scrapped her feet across Chuckís helmet. Chuck and the Turkey both survived the encounter. In Fiddle Town we were both feeling well, and decided to head for home rather than push it any further. July the 4th was a wonderful day for a ride; very little traffic, a good friend and enough climbing to end this yearís death ride training. Larry |
| 6/30/2002 | 85, *63, **40 | Hwy 88 | Larry H., Jim G., Ray R., Dave N., Steve H.*, Carolle & Steve M.** | First off, congrats to the newly engaged couple, Steve & Carolle. Best wishes from all of Ermas. Unanswered is whether the vows will be exchanged while on a tandem (Steve - you better be the stoker). Second, since Gayle and Penny weren't riding, Larry wanted to trek (pun intended) up to Omo Ranch to Hwy 88, never mind it would be one of the hottest days of the year. S&C turned around at Plymouth. Steve H. headed home after Aukum; something about a horse show being more important than riding with us - or at least Bernice thought so. Wise decision Steve. The rest of us followed Larry to 88, always beautiful and slightly cooler. On the trip up, we discovered Ray's previous passion was rock climbing, including 4 ascents of El Cap!!! No wonder he has no fear. The return leg got warmer the closer we got to home with the computer thermometers reading triple digits. Had he been along, Ed might have finally felt comfortable. The rest of us were about cooked by the time we rolled into Ione where Jim had some beverages on ice. Not only did he regale us with a few choice jokes,as usual, but he even had the foresight to pack an ice chest. Good man! (DLN) CAROLLE: What a great day for a ride! Steve & I rode to Plymouth with Larry H, Steve H, Jim G, Dave N and Ray(?). We enjoyed warming up (Larry style) with the guys, as some were going to make their way to Hwy 88. Steve M is riding better and better each week. Plymouth and back is a good ride, maybe next weekend Mt Aukum? Thanks to all who rode with us today! (CP) |
| 6/29/2002 | 100* | Bear Valley to 395 and back | Ray*, Ed, Anita, Jerry and Sarah, Michael*, several others | MICHAEL: This would be my last training ride in the Bear Valley area before the DR. It would be Ray's last ride before he jets off to Costra Rica. With that in mind, Ray and I rode four of the five DR passes and finished with Pacific Grade, after about 85 miles in our legs. That gave us the 100 miles, with 13,000 feet of climbing. Others took various routes with various mileages. Ed and Cheryl made the trip up to Bear for what turned out to be an odd day for them. Their initial plan was that they would join us at various points of our century ride. It turned out that a young man, that joined us at the Plaza, went down hard on the Pacific Grade decent. Cheryl sagged back and ended up helping him. This cut into her plan, as did a reaccuring headache. Cheryl ended up sagging for Ray and me, as did Ed after he rode various spots with us. Having our own team car was great. Plenty of food (Thanx Anita) and water supplied throughout the Monitor Pass area. Many thanks to Ed and Cheryl for all the help, and pictures. After Ray and I came back up the backside of Monitor, Ed and Cheryl headed home, or so we thought. (Check out pics from their picnic) Ray and I continued on towards Bear Valley. Ray meandered up the climbs, urging me on. His example, and strong pull, spurred me onto the barn. Once we arrived back at the Plaza, Jerry "The Velvet Fog" Solberg entertained us with his superb musical talents. Sarah provided much needed showers and Anita fixed Ray and I a very nice meal. With the earlier team car support, the hot shower, the nice meal, and the wonderful music it gave us a taste of the good life. It will be tough doing the DR without Ray and Ed, but I think I am ready. photos: ermasdiner.com/bearvalley/ |
| 6/29/2002 | *100, ? | Bear Valley-Ebbetts-Monitor-Monitor-Ebbetts-Pacific Grade-Bear Valley. | Ed, CY, MK*, Ray*, Anita, S&J, Andy, and a whole lotta BV regulars | RAY: Where's Ray? Or Ed, Anita, or MK? But more importantly, where are those cookies, scones, banana bread, apple cake, lime chips, and guacamole? !!! I was informed that Anita's Bakery has relocated to Bear Valley (hopefully only temporarily). With the Death Ride looming, high-altitude training was on the agenda for many of the Saturday Erma regulars. After 2 years of inviting me up to BV, I finally accepted the gracious offer of Sarah and Jerry to come ride the roads they have come to love. Now I understand why. I should have taken them up on the invitation 2 years ago! MK and I have been up there the past 2 weekends. Anita, the past 5 of 6. Ed and Cheryl joined us this past Sat, along with Andy, S&J, and all their BV pals. I love riding in Amador County, but there is something about riding in the mountains that seems to refresh the mind, body, soul, and spirit. Perhaps it was the clear blue skies, the hint of pine trees in the pure mountain air, or the reflection of the landscape in the still, mirror-like lakes. Whatever it is, when combined with the passion of riding a bike, life takes on a whole new outlook. I'm not sure how many people were riding with our group, since there were so many different rides going on. We met in the area of the Condo Kingdom known as "The Plaza", wherein Sarah is Queen of the Condo. It is a royal offense, punishable by death (OK, well..maybe not death, but at least a furrowed brow) to refer to "The Plaza" as merely "the parking lot". I made that error only once, I hear repeat offenders are forever banished. Temperatures were mild, although you couldn't tell by the way MK was dressed. He actually had more clothes on the Ed! After a little coffee cake and banana bread, with set out for higher elevations. I'm not sure how the other rides went but I'll give you the account of my ride. Not wanting to do a whole lot of climbing, Ed and CY drove ahead to Hermit Valley, while the rest of us proceeded to Mosquito Lake, and down Pacific Grade. I had to remind myself (and MK) to not forget to look around at the beautiful scenery around us. Following the tricky descent down Pacific Grade, we regrouped with Ed and CY in Hermit Valley. Unfortunately, one of S&J's neighbors crashed and went down hard on some rocks about a mile from the bottom. CY drove up the hill to transport him back to BV. I'm not sure of the final diagnosis other than a concussion, going into shock, and road rash, but apparently he was conscious and sore, but lost short-term memory. Proceeding on, we continued to climb up the west side of Ebbetts. At the top, the number of riders seemed to swell. S&J decided to turn back to meet their kids for a hike out of Hermit Valley. My plan was to go to down the backside of Monitor to 395. Others were heading for Markleeville, or the just frontside of Monitor. At the turnoff Ed and I waited to see if Anita was going to join us as MK peeled off his multiple layers of clothing. Anita opted for the sandwich stop at Markleeville. Still no sign of CY. So we 3 Amigos set off into the heat of the day to take on both sides of Monitor. Shortly into the climb, CY finally drove up. I suggested s! he drive to the top and start downhill to find us and we can all climb up the backside together. The temperature started to heat up. We finally made it to the top where we snacked on a few slices of banana bread. CY decided to call it quits due to a week-long headache she had, but offered to SAG. The descent down Monitor was fast and fun. I hit 55mph in a particular stretch, but when the crosswinds hit, I had to pull it back so I wouldn't get blown off the road. The temperature change was very noticeable. There is new pavement in some stretches that really reflects the heat. The canyon just before the bottom felt like an oven as the heat was coming off the walls as well as the pavement. Since Cheryl was kind enough to SAG, we didn't have any concerns about refilling our bottles. On the way back up, it just seemed to get hotter. We did notice that there were no other cyclists to be found anywhere. Hmmm--wonder why? Because it too @#$% hot to be climbing Monitor in the middle of the afternoon! Somewhere on the climb, Ed decided to hop in the truck and drive to the top with CY. They took several pictures of us with the green (yes, green) desert floor in the backdrop. We replenished our supplies when we finally go to the top. It was a good, albeit hot, climb back up to the summit. Ed decided to stay in his civvies and called it a day. He and CY snapped one last photo as MK and I went speeding past on the frontside of Monitor before we parted ways. While MK and I were suffering on Ebbetts, they were dipping their feet in the cool waters of the Carson River, eating watermelon and pasta salad! It was getting late and now there were only two of us left. We had headwinds on the way up to the top of Ebbetts, which made the climb seem much, much longer. It started to get cool on the descent, a stark contrast to just a short time ago on Monitor. Back in Hermit Valley we found the jug of water Sarah had left behind for us. Thanks Sarah. Unfortunately, Anita and Andy didnít hear her say she was going to leave the jug in the "other" parking area. Luckily, Mike had enough water to share to get them back to BV. Meanwhile, with one little hill left to climb, MK and I would be nearly home. Pacific Grade. It's hard enough with fresh legs, but at mile 86 it was even harder. Triple? We don't need no stinkin' triple!!! We got some encouragement from a guy on a Harley when he passed us and shouted, "Man, you guys are tough!!" Some of those switchbacks are pretty steep. Thanksfully it's only 2.x miles long. It would have been really ugly if we had to do this for 9 or 10 miles. On the way up, I told MK that if this were a stage race, now would be the time to attack. Yeah, right! Makes you respect those professional riders all the more. When we finally got to the top, we slapped high fives, and could finally smell the barn. I felt rejuvenated knowing that the hard part was over and it was mostly downhill (i.e. "Get the @#$%! outta my way, this train is an express to BV!"). I flew back, with MK right behind me. As I feared back on top of Monitor, we ended up with only 99 miles when we got to BV, so we rode down the road a bit and around "The Plaza" just to get to 100 miles. When we finally got back I was still pretty fired-up. Jerry was rockin' the realm and the Queen was still having audience with her subjects. We were treated to a royal feast (sandwiches, roasted veggies, cous-cous, chips, and guacamole) as if we had returned with the Holy Grail. We relaxed a bit before embarking for the flatlands. It had been a long day. Special thanks to S&J for their gracious hospitality, Anita for the banana bread and guacamole, Ed for the company on Ebbets and Monitor and all the photos, CY for being our SAG in outer-Hell, and to MK for hanging with me through 100 miles, Pacific Grade, and 13000'+ on my own personal DR. Good Luck on the 13th, see you all in a few weeks. (RC) |
| 6/29/2002 | 115, 60*, 40**35*** | Stoney Creek, Clinton, Tabeaud, Red Corral, Volcano, Lockwood, Fiddletown, Mt, Aukum, Fairplay, Steiner, Plymouth, , Forest Home, Irish Hill | Chuck, Dave Brubaker*, Al*, Jill**, Jack***, and three from Stockton Bike Club | Ermaís Diner has an advantage starting in the same place every time. The Stockton Bike Club had a ride at the same time but things got confused so four of their riders joined us. Started out ominously with Jack getting two flats at the same spot on the way to Buena Vista. He borrowed a tube, went back to Ione, & drove up to the bike shop in Jackson where he got re-supplied and rejoined us up Clinton. On 88 up to Red Corral he flatted again & called it quits. Because of some miss communication with Al, Jill had already turned back at the top of Stoney Creek. We lost the Stockton group at various places along the rout with Joe, their club president being the only one to hang with Erma. The main group pealed off at Daffodil Hill to take Shake Ridge back, while Chuck, seeking more miles, headed on, and on, and on. (CG) |
| 6/25/2002 | 40 | S.C. Ione, B.V Stoney Creek, Seeing the Elephant,S.C. | S. Honeychurch,Paul Mollinelli,Gene , Jeff Stroh, Stockton Boy | Today was beat the heat day which we almost did. We started at 8 in the morning with perfect weather going down to Ione.Paul returned to ride with us this week after having to undergo a week of employment. Ugh! Jeff is rapidly getting faster and strong-it's good to be young! Did we beat the heat going up Stoney Creek? Not really but Paul especially enjoyedit as he had brand new beautiful yellow tyres and there had just been a cattle drive along Stoney Creek-that's why we eat those things Karen. The people in Seeing the Elephant were thrilled to see the name on the new jerseys and wanted to buy one if we ever get more. Try a butterscotch italian soda after riding stoney creek. It's as good as Ringer lactate. See you all next week. SWH |
| 6/23/2002 | 101*, 60**, 45***, 40**** | Ione to Plymouth, to Mt. Aukum, to Omo Ranch, to Cooks Station, to Volcano, to Red Coral, to Tabeaud, to Stoney Creek & Buena Vista. | Chuck,*, Steve*, Penny & Jim **, Karen**, and John R.**, PAt Johnston***, Steve(Crash) McGrath and Carrolle **** | It was a great day. Great weather, much fun! Steve McGrath was back on two wheels 7 weeks after he got into his "bit of a bother" with a squirl on Tabeaud. It will not be long before he is back in great form again. Pat Johnston is still breaking in his new Rex, so he turned around on School House Road. John, Karen, Penny, and Jim turned around at Mt. Aukum, leaving Chuck and Steve to tackle the higher elevations. Steve and Chuck ended with over 7k in elevation gain, and 101 miles. We ran into some of our old motor cycle friends, but we did not need them to pace us back to Ione this time, we had just enough energy left to do it on our own... but that was about it... not one turn of the cranks left in either of us when we got back to the parking lot; an to think that Dave N & Scott had just the day before completed the Terrrrrible Twoooo. Congratulations to the Double Centrury riders! CG STEVE MCGRATH: Today was the first day back on the bike, wasn't the most pleasent experience. But to be back with all the Erma's group was! I truly believe that the Erma's group are the best people in the world!!! Carolle and I decided we would meet with the group and do a flat ride. But the route chosen was to Plymouth and beyond. (Not that I had to worry about the beyond). It was great being back and being able to talk to everyone and catchup with Jim & Penny's life. Heading up Irish Hill, Chuck decided to circle back and help me up the hills (pushing me). I think this was great training for Chuck getting ready for the Death Ride. I know it was great for me, because I didn't have to work up the hills. Again it was a great ride. Thanks to everyone for their patience and hope to be up to speed soon! See you soon, if Carolle let's me out on the bike again. SM |
| 6/22/2002 | 200 | Terrible Two DC | Scott T., Dave N. | Scott and I agreed that I should write this report if I ever wanted anyone to do it with me in the future (assuming I ever do it again). It's hard enough to climb what the organizers call 15% grades (Scott thinks 20+) but harder still when he has you laughing saying he hopes his bottom bracket breaks so he could sag in and gladly be one of the 37% that doesn't finish within the time limit. The organizers say "This should not be your first double". For any sane individual, it isn't any of his/her doubles. We were fortunate to have cool weather and favorable winds; and beautiful weather along the coast. There was no keeping up with Scott on the many technical downhills; his mountain biking skills being put to good use. We both did qualify for the "I did it" T-shirt, beating the 10pm deadline by an hour, over 5-1/2 hours behind the first rider in. Long after the sore muscles recover, I think I can speak for both of us when I say we will certainly remember the experience for a long time to come; in fact, Scott was saying he'll tell his grandchildren how insane this was. But I'm not sure if he was referring to the course or himself for doing it. Thanks though Scott for the fine company and the strong pulls near home. DLN |
| 6/22/2002 | 61*, 40** | Ione to Sutter Creek to Volcano to Red Corral, to Irish Town, to Stony Creek | Chuck*, Al*, Gene*, Mark,*, Beverly**, Jill**, | Great Saturday ride with rather small Erma contingency! CG |
| 6/22/2002 | 80 | DR tune up | Sarah, Jerry, Ray, Anita, Michael, Michael A., as well as friends of S&J | What a wonderful day spent with the consummate hosts; Sarah and Jerry. They were as hospitable as the surroundings were beautiful. Anita's homemade goodies started the day and ended the day. She is certainly showing that she is Erma's jersey logo worthy. The route was from BV to the top of Monitor, and back. Mother nature appeared to have just been given a makeover. Everywhere you looked the scene took my breath away, or was that the tough climbing? The mountain lakes mirrored the adjacent forests like no painter could ever replicate. Snow covered mountain tops held my focus and took some of the sting out of my legs. Rushing rivers flowed past like an endless peleton. The overall effect was truely awe inspiring. Thanx to Ray and Michael A. for their constant encouragement. And thanxs to Ray for the reminder to look around as we rode. Nothing I have done deserved the sensations I was blessed with on this ride, but I will greedily relish them all the same. (MK) |
| 6/18/2002 | 45 | S.C. Daffodil Hill Lockwood Fiddletown New Chicago, Turner Rd |
Dave the dentist, Mark Minister,Steve Surgeon, Genuflect Gene,Juggernaut Jeff, and Stockton Boy |
The AARP ride is becoming the place to be on Tuesday, Four of us met in the parking lot at 8 and left for Volcano. Just as we were about to leave Volcano Gene and Dave Ritchie from Murphys came up the road breathing hard. We let them rest as in an Italien rest stop and heaeded up. The road up the creek was delightfully cool in the morning but that would end soon. We collected ourselves at Lockwood and did a smoothly rotating pace line all the way down to Fiddletown which was Jeffs first time doing this-he loved it. After doing the same thing into Plymouth we tanked up with mucho gatoraid in anticipation of New Chicago and we wern't disappointed-even Ed would admit it's hot there! Mark used to mountain bike back in that countryside but this is the first time he had ridden a road bike to get there. It's all pretty dry now and perfectly acceptable to Michael Kale-no portages-in fact little water there.at all. After returning to S.C. we all sat down to banana smoothies to get our core temperatures below 103. Good D.R. training.SWH |
| 6/16/2002 | 50, 30* | standard coffee | Don S, Cheryl*, Ed* | My ride was the old standard Sat coffee route, Ione, SC, Volcano, Daffy Hill, SC via the Pine Gulch cutoff, Ione. Missed Ed and Cheryl in SC by not stopping, but merged on creek road for rest of ride. Nice day for a ride, inspired me to ride Del Puerto Canyon this week. DS |
| 6/16/2002 | 52 | Ermas Return to the mountains: Monitor/Monitor/Ebbetts Passes | Sarah, Jerry, Anita, Dave R., Rit., assorted Bear Valley bikers.....saw Scott T., Ray R., Dave Rogers |
Another "Erma's in the Mountains" event. From home base at Bear Valley we drove to Wolf Creek (site of lunch stop on DR) to park, and left for Monitor at 0800 in the chill of the morning. Shed our flashy Erma jackets very quickly after starting our ascent up Monitor. The pass was beautiful - clear blue skies and relatively cool temps. We gathered at the Monitor Summit monument and decided to go down the other side for a double Monitor because the temps were so pleasant, and off we headed for the jaw dropping vista as you come across the ridge and look out into the Carson Valley on the east side. There was an alarming plume of smoke growing in the distant mountains, with plenty of smoke streaming into the lower canyon. When I started to smell smoke on the way down, I decided not to go all the way to 395 and risk an asthma attack. (about 1 1/2 miles from bottom) Just then saw two other cyclists stopped on the road heading up, and they turned around for the same reason - it was none other than fellow Ermas, Scott Taggart and Ray R! Enjoyed a good talk with Scott as we headed back up - he was doing the ride as a training ride for the Terrible Twos next weekend, which was also a training ride for the DR which was a warm-up training ride for a 100mile mountain bike race he is doing in August!!! That guy is amazing!!! Ray R. zoomed on ahead sure I was going to chastise him once again for his "no-helmet" routine. Saw him last week and gave him my Emergency Dept. Nurse lecture on wearing helmets, and he tried to tell me he just forgot it last week. Since I caught him helmetless again this weekend I now know it is his routine! We must continue to harangue this guy about the essentials of cycling......saving da brain! Scott soon went on ahead, and I continued solo up the pass, I passed a man standing by his pick-up along side the road halfway up the pass. When I first noticed him I thought.....oh, someone stopped to use the roadside restroom (the nearest tree) or perhaps it was someone stopping to expose himself to breathless female cyclists en route to the summit. Then he hailed me, and it was another Erma, Dave Rogers, en route home from doing the Eastern Sierra Double the day before!!! Erma reunions all day long! Our group finished both Monitors, then back up the east side of Ebbetts and got a sag back to Bear Valley from Hermit Valley, so no need to kill ourselves crawling up Pacific Grade at the end of a long day. Not a long day mileswise, but plenty of climbing and some headwinds on the return - although nothing like last weekends gale force winds! And over and over the amazing vistas that Ebbetts pass offers the alpine cyclist. Simply doesn't get any finer than this. ss |
| 6/15/2002 | 66, *50, **30, ***91 | S.C.,Volcano,Lockwood,Fiddletown,**Mt Aukum and points north | Steve H.,Dave B.,Dave N.,Ed*,Cheryl*,Jill** ,Michael K.***,Chuck*** | For one of the last rides of the spring we had a smaller but excellent group. Dave Neff broke away from one of his 1000 km. brevets to regale us with the stories of these epic rides. After climbing to S.C. we skipped coffee which probably was a mistake for Ed as he was looking for a room to stay the night in Volcano to lie down. Jill met us in Sutter Creek and told how Al was fising with his son in a derby and was expected to come home with trophy winning trout. We all missed Anita (especially at the end) but it was rumored that she actually had a date on Friday night so could not stay up all night cooking for us> At Daffodil Hill Ed Cheryl and Jill headed down Shakeridge while the rest of us went on to Lockwood. It was an express train down to Fiddletown led by Dave N. and Michael with Steve trying to hang on the whole way-he did -another triumph for modern medicine. Michael and Chuck headed up Tyler to make their route longer while the rest of us headed home as the thermometer was rising. Bring on Death Ride we will be ready! SWH MICHAEL: And then there was two. Well, actually one rider and one wheel sucker, thanx Chuck for all the help. MK |
| 6/11/2002 | 37 | ARRP 911 Ride-Red Corral Tabeau, Clinton | Steve H.,Gene,Paul M. Stockton Boy,Jeff Stroh | We did it! That is the 911 ride with not hits,no accidents and no errors. We welcome a new rider Jeff Stroh from Stockton who hasn't ridden in groups but is riding the Death Ride for the first time. Paul did his usual early start tho' we think he is thinking "Old Paul" not 'New Paul"The weather was perfect for a casual ride up the creek and actually enjoying the scenery. We missed Joanne but we get her e-mail from Italy where she is riding-the only serious female cyclist in existance it seems. After going down Hwy 88 from Red Corral Jeff took of through the esses down Tabeau so he wouldn't feel intimitated by us. We finished up going over China Gate to Sutter Creek. It was then time for banana snoothies-a good way to start the day! (SWH) |
| 6/9/2002 | 28 | Bear Valley Recovery Ride | Jerry, Sarah, Anita, Michael A, Dave R, Rit & friends | Another "Ermas in the Mountains" ride out of Bear Valley, many of us with legs a bit trashed from yesterdays climbing into the wind ride. My favorite Bear Valley ride - into Spicer Reservoir and back.....starts out with a great downhill to the Stanislaus River (all of us wrapped up in leggings, fingered gloves and layers in the 40' temps) Warmed up a bit on the climb up to Sap's Hill, then jackets back on for the ride into Spicer dam. Most went to the bottom of the dam for a little extra work - those of us with faint hearts and weakened legs enjoyed the beauty of the day at the dam hunkered down beneath the cement rail out of the wind. White caps on the water, and not a cloud in the sky. There was talk of some of the more ambitious (read: YOUNGER) members of the group continuing back up the mountain to Mosquito Lake after refueling in Bear Valley, but the refueling stop felt so good, the sun so warm, the food so tasty that we opted for a prolonged lunch and lawn chair stop instead. The wind died down, the sun felt positively warm and we thawed out for the first time all day. A good recovery ride after yesterday's hard ride, and a must do for anyone who hasn't ridden into Spicer. Little/no traffic on smooth pavement with some hills and great vistas at the end. SS |
| 6/9/2002 | 50; 67: ? | Butte Mtn. Loop and More | Carolle, Karen, John R. (50): John H (67): Chuck , Dave (Pine Grove)(?) | Excellent loop .... for three of us it was only 50 miles but definitely 50 quality miles indeed. It was good to visit Stoney Creek again and catch "her" when it wasn't really HOT. At the intersection of Clinton and Butte Mtn. roads we parted company with Chuck and Dave of Pine Grove . They were going to push hard to get to Fiddletown for the "Raising of the Fiddle" and join up with Larry , Gail or Jennifer and Jim and Penny. John H needed more miles and took on Willow Creek and Irish Hill while Carolle, Karen , and John decided that heading straight back to Ione was a good idea. Thankfully so. More and more I'm convinced that "things happen for a reason" because if we had decided to ride longer I may not have gotten home in time to handle an emergency that was waiting for Karen and me. That emergency being "Hannah", our German Shorthair, was in serious trouble. After realizing her discomfort was serious,I took her to Jackson Creek Vet. Emergency where she went into immediate surgery. She is recovering but had she gotten there a couple hours later she would have died.Except for that, the day was "just dandy" and I'm looking forward to hearing about how the rest did on their ride. (JR) |
| 6/9/2002 | 70 | Raising the Fiddle June 9th | Jim, Jennifer and Larry 70 miles Steve 37 Chuck and Dave 85+ |
The Ermaís ride was scheduled to leave Ione at 7 am for several reasons, the first being Jims new adage ìWe be Slow & Shitî which describing how the tandem Duals (Jim, Penney, Gayle and myself) climb. Gayle was taking my mom the easy way to Fiddletown (by car). Jennifer my reserve stoker, was about to make her first tandem ride over 2 miles was bringing up the rear. We (Jim, Jennifer and Myself) rolled out of Ione at 7:05 hoping to meet up with Steve H in Plymouth at 8:30. We made the 8:30 cut-off by 3 minutes. Steve suggested we head for Fiddletown the long way, byway of Shenandoah, Shenandoah School and Ostrom, We were trying to meet up with the Wheelmen for a 10:00 start for there 16 mile ride, which would end with the Fiddle Raising. We arrived in Fiddletown a little before 10:00 and waited around for 15 minutes, with no wheelmen in sight we headed out for your own 16-mile loop. The loop entailed Tyler Rd to Mt Aukum (the store) down Shenandoah to Ostrom and back to Fiddletowm. We did come across the wheelmen; they were heading up Shenandoah Rd while we were going down. We arrived back in Fiddletown around noon, to find Gayle and my mom enjoying the activities. Jim was the only one in our group wearing an Ermaís Jersey (New and Improved) so he presented a check for $265.00 to the Fiddletown Community Club. Jim and Steve made personal contributions not included in the $265.00 check, which probably pushed the total from your, cycling group over $300.00. Just before 1:00 Chuck and Dave rolled in, in time to see the Fiddle Raised. We left shortly after the Fiddle raising, heading out of Fiddletown on Fiddletown road. I was dreading the climb knowing Jennifer was getting tired, my fears soon evaporated once we started up the hill. I couldnít believe how easy the climb was I really misjudged her. The trip down Old Sacramento road wasnít much fun, the wind was a real bitch. We took Latrobe Rd to the Jackson, Willow creek and finally back to Ione. I couldnít believe how strong Jennifer was and how naturally she took to the Tandem. Now I wish had purchased a triple. Gayle and Jennifer have both asked about the Death Ride. Thanks to all who contributed, I sure the community club will put the money to good use. I only wish we could have had a larger turnout for the ride. --Larry |
| 6/8/2002 | 62 | SC-Vol-Red Corral-Irishtown-Clinton-Jackson-Stoney-BV-Ione | Ray, Al the pal, Gene, Coconut Al, Jill, Bev, Mark, Tim, Debbie, Bob, Gail, Brandon | Lots of absent Sat regulars today, Anita in Bear Valley with S & J, MK doing family stuff, Steve H. was called back by the mothership for the weekend, and then there were Vegas Ed and Vegas Cheryl. But that's not to say I had to ride by myself. There were a whole lot of new faces in the Erma Peloton. We welcomed Bev, Coconut Al and Jill's neighbor from the Creek Road, Tim from Ione, Mark from Jackson, and Debbie's husband Bob. Brandon also returned for his first Erma ride of the year. It was generally a social ride up to SC. Brandon didn't want to kill himself so he decided to turn back at SC. Gail, Debbie, and Bob also broke off and to take a different route. The ride up the Creek Road started slow, but for some reason seems to get faster at the end. Funny how that happens. Anyway, Mark showed really strong form for having limited miles on the bike. After going up Red Corral and down to Pine Grove, Tim was happy to start heading downhill. When we got to the T-intersection, we waited for Tim , but he never showed. Gene and I headed back to look for him, but since we couldn't find him, we figured that he had enough climbing and headed down the highway. When we got back to the others, Mark left to aid someone with a flat (Gail?). So the rest of us took off to visit our friends at the Elephant. They were excited to see their logo on the new Erma jersey. Climbing up Hoffman, Bev showed signs of her old (okay, not's so old) competitive form. She's a natural climber. I can't wait to see what she's like when she rides into form. Stoney Creek was fast, but not too bad. Coconut Al and Jill are really riding strong. Al the Pal and I shared the pull into a miserable headwind going into BV. The Amazing Gene continues to look great taking several long pulls. It was a great day making new friends and getting out on the road. (RC) |
| 6/7/2002 | Alpine County High Country Training | Jerry, Anita, Michel A (75) Sarah, Dave R. (62) Rit (50) | How many Erma's does it take to call it an Erma Ride? We had 4 regular Ermas, 2 occasional Erma's and several "Gee I'd like to be an Erma if you get to wear a cool jersey like that!" We gathered in Bear Valley for some Death Ride training early Saturday AM, several of us wearing our new Erma finery. We were greeted by gusty winds that progressed into miserable, unending headwinds for the duration of our ride from Bear Valley to Markleeville and back. Some took sags to Hermit Valley to shorten the ride, and for others to avoid the kick butt climb up Pacific Grade at the end of the ride. Clear, crisp temps and occasional tailwinds going up the west side of Ebbetts, that would often turn on you with a vengence into a cross or headwind. Many cyclist from other groups or solo coming up the other side, and some Stockton Bike Club riders as well. Great lunch at the sandwich shop in Markleeville....they handled our group of some 18 riders quickly, along with a the Death Ride Training group out of Kirkwood, a herd of Harley riders and some 'regular' tourists. Praying for a tailwind for the trip back did no good, and we headed into the wind and the return to Bear. Very windy in spots on Ebbetts - fighting the headwind while going uphill seems to be cruel and unusual punishment to me. At Kinney Lake below Ebbetts Pass summit there was an explosive blast of cross currents that sandpapered us and nearly knocked the bikes over. The blessed summit offered little relief from the wind, and the trip down the other side precarious and scary with the wind flipping my bike from side to side. I was whipped by the time I got to Hermit Valley, and managed to beg a sag home to Bear to avoid yet another windy, steep ride up Pacific Grade. I wasn't too miserable to enjoy the incredible vistas that continue to amaze me on this beautiful pass. The air was so clear, the sky so blue, all the lakes now thawed, with just patches of snow remaining, and everywhere along the road little brooks and streams and waterfalls gurgling & bouncing their way down the mountain. Quiet & serene, with the occasional cars, Harley riders and vintage car group especially courteous on this fine day. SS |
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| 6/4/2002 | 29,*40 | S.C.; Daffodil Hill, BNig Trees* and Shakeridege | Steve H. ,Paul M., Gene*,Bruce* and Dave* from Knightson | Some of us were still somewhat spent after Saturday's extravaganza so a short social ride was in order. We welcome the riders who came all the way from Knightson to ride our hills. Some of us returned for banana smoothies at the coffee house while others wanted to climb more. With the heat the smoothies won. SWH |
| 6/2/2002 | 60 | Fiddletown Loop | Carolle, Karen, and John | Perfect weather for this threesome to continue their efforts to get back into form. The "Fiddletown Loop" was "just what the doctor ordered" for a "full and complete recovery". By unanimous vote we skipped riding Irish Hill Rd. both going and coming and Carolle enjoyed the new route .... so did our legs. The cool breeze from the Delta was a little strong at times but without it the temp-erature would have been in the high 90's so we didn't complain a bit ....not out loud that is. We were glad to get back to "Erma's parking lot" since no one had eaten enough that morning to ride much longer but we were pleased with our efforts and ride and look forward to joining the main peleton this coming weekend. We missed our friends and thought about our pal Chuck who was at the hospital with his wife Carol who was in the hospital for about 5 days but is now home and recovering nicely I'm HAPPY to report. See you on the road this Sunday.(JR) |
| 6/1/2002 | 104 | Sierra Century | 104: Michael K (1st century), Anita, Ray, Sarah, Cheryl, Ed, Steve H (and brother), Al the Pal, Coconut Al and Jill, Hambone; 82: Jim and Penny, Larry and Gayle; ??: Gail, Debbie, Dave B, Gene, Richard B, John D, and special guest appearances by Barbara (on bike), Larrry R (on Slug), Joanne (on bass), Peter S (on motorcycle), and Bob D (on washboard) | Comments and favorite moments as they come in: MICHAEL K: A day of firsts; first day in the new Ermas jersey (What a great job Ray did!), first century, first ride up Slug Gluch. A day of repetition; same great friends, same fun, same thankfullness for all the above. ANITA: Love the jerseys (they fit) and especially loved the surprise logo on the front...thank you...but what happens when I get dates for Friday nights? The day was perfect and thank you to Steve H. for living up to the reputation of "the Fastest Hands in the West!" You were a great for helping me with the two flats. Can we do the double metric next year? RAY: First, the not-so-favorite moments: parking in Egypt (sorry Sarah, I got confused since Calaveras County looks so much like the Pyramids of Giza and the Valley of the Kings); the long food line in Volcano and no potatoes; and the @#!$% tacks on Perry Creek Rd. Favorite moments: Paceline of Erma riders resplendent in their new jerseys; tempo riding up to Volcano, thanks MK and Dave B. for the company; the Flyer down to the Flags of Fiddletown; ice cream at Mt. Aukum; climbing up Slug in the heat of the day (yeah, right!); pink helmets; chasing the group down Omo Ranch Rd. Best moment: Moto-pacing and the pull from Mt. Aukum to Plymouth. Special thanks to Ed and Al the Pal for the support when that wheel-sucking leech attacked (I chased him down and gave him an earful on bicycle etiquette!). Thanks to the Wheelmen for a great Century! SARAH: report: Best moments: * Putting on my terrific new Erma jersey & jacket Saturday at 0530 and immediately feeling powerful and flashy! Pumped up for the day's adventure. * Greeting old friends,Ermas & everyone else who gathered in the Plymouth Fairgrounds to prepare for a day's cycling & companionship * Those big, juicy strawberries at the registration area * Riding my favorite roads & routes in Amador & El Dorado county enjoying the cool temps, clouds & beauty of the day * Potatoes in Volcano * Roadside signs on Rams Horn Grade and Slug Gulch to take my mind off the lactic acid buildup * Gratitude to Sacramento Wheelmen for putting on such a class act with the SC - the logistics must be amazing, but they pull it off with aplumb. Delightful "waiters" in Volcano for those of us too weak to make it to the food line. * Thanks to Ray "Flash Designs" for the great work on on classy jersey! Least favorite: * No Jerry, favorite roommate, hubby & bike mechanic to ride with! * I NEVER hooked up with the Ermas! Where was the pelaton? Michael K. told me the group would go out fast, so with my brief headstart I was certain they would scoop Dave & I up by Ione, then SC, then a long wait in Volcano & still no Erma train. Fiddletown - no sign of the them yet. Long recovery period at Omo Ranch school, no Ermas, and I was starting to worry...... Missed joining what must have been an impressive Erma-clad paceline heading home from Omo Ranch. * What were those food lines all about in Volcano? * Jammed chain ring approaching Slug Gulch....thank you Dave R. and unknown bike good Samaritan who provided emergency surgery. * Does Slug Gulch ever get easier? ED: Our tandem ride this year started right at the gate. I got the #1 position on a fast tandem down Old Sacto all the way to Forest Home. Best of all was riding with our group, fun and supportive, in our spectacular new jerseys. Thanks to Ray for the jerseys and all the pulls, especially the Fiddletown Flyer and congrats to MK on his first 100. |
| 5/28/2002 | 73 and 90 or so for Dave | Jesus Maria! | Steve H. Gene, Dave Rogers*,Paul Molinelli. Joanne Seaver and friend | For those who are not chained to a cubicle weekdays this was THE RIDE! We figured this was one of our last chances to do Jesus Maria before it got too hot-we were almost right. We started out at Buena Vista to cut the time down to a more reasonable five hours on the bike. Going out Rancho Seco and up to Palome is always longer that what I thought. We took the bypass from Paloma Rd to hwy 49 at Moke Hill which is a pleasant little gem. After refueling at Moke Hill we started up Jesus Maria which still had green grass and shrubs but is turning brown fast. Steve kept telling Paul how it really wasn't that hard and Dave would counter to Paul that it was all uphill and hot. I think Paul decided Steve lies. It really was beautiful going through the forest at the top. When we reached the fire house at Mt. Ranch Dave did firefighter talk and we invited in for cold ice water and clean bathrooms. After descending to Railroad Flat we stopped to get more food as Paul needed more fuel so he could call Steve more names. Dave unbelievably felt the ride wasn't hard enough and left us to go through West Point and get more miles! Everyone looked strong with Joanne preparing to ride with Andy Hampston in Italy and Gene getting ready for the Sierra. At Moke Hill Paul borrowed 20 dollars for a taxi (which he didn't use) and got reprimanded by a women saying bicyclist shouldn't ride on Hwy 26-there is a grain of truth in this as a logging truck was playing "how close can I come to these skinny wheeled vehicles" We pacedlined together back to Ione feeling very virtuous for this great ride arriving weighing five to ten poundes less than when we started.SWH miles: 72 (estimated 60) route: AARP...Buena Vista-Moke Hill-Jesus Maria Rd-Railroad Flat -return via Hwy 26 and Pardee Dam Thanks to Steve's uncanny ability to not be able to estimate mileage, we nearly managed to knock ourselves out just 4 days before the Sierra century! And he had the nerve to call it a tune-up! On the up side, it was a spectacular ride and new territory to me. Although in the mid-eighties, there was a much appreciated breeze and things are still on the green side up top. Fantastic scenery, long but do-able climbs, sweeping downhills, the fragrance of evergreens and buckeyes filling the air. Above all, what a grand crew to ride with and we are always thankful when there are no crashes, injuries, flats, mechanical problems or near-misses! Just keeps getting better all the time! Many thanks! (JS) |
| 5/26/2002 | 50 | Saturday Coffee ride on Sunday | Carolle Peacock, Steve Honeychurch, Ed Hensley, Cheryl Young | Being the first to arrive at the parking lot at 7:30am, I had thoughts of going back home. I am glad I stayed as Steve H, Ed and Cheryl arrived. We started out toward Sutter Creek slowly...lucky for me Ed needs time to warm up. After a nice relaxing break for coffee and pastry in Sutter Creek, up the creek road we went. They all took good care of me, riding my pace for most of the climb. As we were enjoying the morning, so was a garter snake sunning across the road. I was the only one to see it and not run over it, as Steve H and Cheryl tried their best to wake the snake up, by laying tire tracks on its back! After a short stop in Volcano, and a nice climb up Rams Horn, the race was on down Shakeridge. By this time all were warmed up and the "Ed Train" was gaining momentum. Steve H and Ed pulled us home. I don't remember peddling much past Sutter Creek! We had a great ride, although not quite the same without Steve M. He tries to convince me daily he is ready to ride. I listen and then say how about riding the trainer for now! Thanks again everyone for a great ride. (cp) |
| 5/25/2002 | 64 | SC-Volcano-Lockwood-Fiddle-Plymouth | Michael K, Gene, Chuck, Ed, Dave R, Mark (new from Jackson), Gail, Debby, cameos by Peter S and Bobby the D | I barely made it since my bike was in Buckhorn and I was in Sacramento at 7AM, but I met the group in Sutter Creek, as did Gail and Debby. I saw Dave R riding down Ridge toward Ione as I drove up. He rode from Pine Grove and then to the top of Daffodil before having to get back--for a tandem ride. Mark, a pastor in Jackson joined the Sat group for obvious reasons. Michael got his first back treatment so was under doctor's orders to take it easy. I'm not sure the doc would think 64 hilly, fast miles would be "easy." We were treated to the best peacock show I've seen at the entrance to Daffy Hill. By Lockwood, there were just for four of us in Erma jerseys since Mark had to get back via Shake too. The Erma jerseys working together down Fiddletown and then down Old Sacramento was a treat to see and participate in. Good day to ride, a well-matched group. I didn't even mind (too much) having to ride back to SC after a Ray memorial lime chip break in Ione. On the way back, I saw some Wheelmen and then Bob and Peter, who had opted (as usual) for the later start of the Wheelmen ride. Great to see them and discuss the art tour they organized (but don't ask Bob about it, and don't ask Peter about his "wife." (EH) |
| 5/18/2002 | 64 | SC-Volcano-Red Corral-Irishtown-Clinton-Stoney Creek | Ray, Anita, Sarah, Jerry, Andy, Mark, Vic, Gene, Cheryl, Ed, Hambone, Steve H, Michael K, Chuck (59), Coconut Al, Doc, Sneezy | Another fun-in-the-sun (but not summer sun) ride. Someone else will have to comment on the first half of the ride since I was mostly alone at the back. The second half, when it finally warmed up a bit and I woke up, was fast and fun, getting us back to Ione before 1:30, so Ray and Jerry had time to clean up, sit, eat, talk, relax before leaving for the Kings game. I'll leave the description to someone else who wants to, except that it was fun to ride as a nearly uniform color guard in single file down the highway and a fast peloton behind Ray down Clinton, despite a stiff headwind. The other things I wanted to add were what happened after the ride. Cheryl and I met Steve McGrath and Jordan at Wal-Mart. We heard his view of the crash story as well as a (cringe) description of the backbone he found is popped out of place and pinching a nerve. In total, he has a separated collarbone at EACH END, cracked upper ribs, and a T-vertebra out of place. For all that, he seemed optimistic about his recovery and surprisingly fit. In fact, he'd been out for a mile walk that morning, for which I told him he'd get Erma mileage. From there, we surprised new-homeowners John and Karen in Pine Grove for a view of their brand new home. It's spectacular, even though they're still painting and moving in. Can't wait for the two upcoming house warmings (Steve?). Great, comfy, fun day in the hills before the big storm hit. (EH) |
| 5/14/2002 | 36 | Old.Old coffe route eg. B.V. Sutter Creek Stoney Creek | S. Honeychurch,Paul Molinelli, Joanne Seaver and friend | This ride was billed as a "safe ride" Is this akin to safe sex-an oxymoron? Paul left early so we could catch up-we never did.until the coffee house.It was a relaxed day just enjoying the comraderie until Stoney Creek seduced us and just had to get it on. Coming up soon Jesus Maria! Tetative date 28 May-in time to tune you up for the Sierra Century.SWH |
| 5/11/2002 | 70, 74* | standard Big Coffee (Lockwood-Fiddle-Ostrom) | Steve H, Anita, Ray*, Michael K*, Gene, Sarah, Jerry, Andy, Mark, Dave R, Chuck, Pat, Al the Pal, Al and Jill (from the Creek Rd), Ed, Larry and Gayle, Don S | This was the "Big Ride" in a different way--a big turnout. Since the Big Ride was canceled at the last minute, Chuck and the L-G tandem showed up for the 8:00 start. Thank goodness, since the tandem gave us some great pulls. Here are some summaries. Pat had to turn back at SC after grabbing a coffee so that he could be in the Ione parking lot by 10:00 for a conference call with the governor. Chuck joined him heading back because he couldn't remember whether he left his wallet out. Al the Pal drove past us on S-I Rd (yes, I took a ride with him so I could get a quick coffee) and started in SC. His ride didn't last long, ramming the rear derailleur into his wheel and breaking 3 spokes. Steve rode back to SC with Al's keys and drove back to pick him up. Ray and Michael rode back down the creek to check on and stay with Al (thus more miles). Al drove Steve to Lookwood to join us for the Fiddletown Express, led by Larry-Gayle and Ray. We hit 47 MPH. The tandem and I had a competition over Ostrom about who could do it the slowest. I won some stages and they won some. Since the group had gone ahead, the L-G Express whizzed us straight down the highway to Plymouth in time to meet John Drumm leaving the fleamarket that had taken over town. He was on crutches. Fell off a ladder, strained ligaments. He says that today was going to be his first Erma ride back. Could be worse, as Steve McGrath knows, unfortunately. Dave Rogers was the EMT on that ride and described in excruciating detail what happened. Everyone was talking about and thinking of Steve's crash and wishing him well. We were very wary of squirrels. The express train took off again down Old Sac out of Plymouth, with L-G, Ray, and Dave taking the pulls. I don't know all of what happened on Irish Hill, except that Larry and Gayle showed me their strength by pulling me the entire way over I-H, catching and passing the main peloton, on a hill. It's amazing how strong and natural Gayle is on the tandem after such a short time. And their coordination is something I can really appreciate and respect since I could never figure out how to do it in my short tandem experience. At Ione, Sarah handed out delicious cold orange slices to start our recovery process and Anita set up a picnic area with chips, crackers, and her spectacular guacamole. Some of us sat there talking for over an hour. The one topic that was off-limits was the Kings game since most of us had taped it and didn't want to know the outcome. I forgot to mention that I didn't feel great the entire time and was ready to take a ride with Al back, but Michael talked me into sticking around, and I was glad I did. I think the Fiddletown Flyer did a J.J. Jacobs tuneup on me. JR and some others will know what I mean. Great day. Could have been warmer. (EH) |
| 5/7/2002 | 36 plus 36 more for Steve M.bonus niles for ambulance ride | Usual AARP (Red Corral, Tabaud and Clinton | S. Honeychurch, Paul Molinelli, Steve M. Dave Rogers | Today we met a new face Dave Rogers who lives up on Tabaud and heard about us on the net. It was apparant Steve M. was glad to have someone to play with going up to Volcano as after the 8 mile mark they were gone. We did get a chance to hear what a good time Steve and Carol had seeing his son graduate at Great Lakes Naval Base. Paul also told us all about his daughters wedding on Friday in S.F with one of those fantastic celebrations only the Italians can put on. After climbing to Red Corral we had a nice paceline down and when we hit Tabaud we were really clicking on all eight cylinders. Unfortunately a squirrel took exception to this and ran between Steve M's spokes just as we entered the second set of S curves. I didn't see it but those who did said it absolutely terrifying as he "endoed" over the bike and down the embankment. Fortunately he landed in dirt as opposed to rocks. but is was obvious this was serious. Dave and I assesed him and got in contact with 911.which didn't take long to get there. Steve continued to bitch about his bike which Dave and I interpreted as a good sign-ie normal. He went to the E.R. in Jackson and had some rib fx and shoulder separation. His helmet for those who don't wear them was split down the side from the impact but his head was fine. We were understandingly subdued as we returned home. The EMT's suggested we only ride uphll for awhile. We now are offering CME (continuing medical education) credits for the ride on Tuesday but may will avoid this route for a little while. (SWH) |
| 5/5/2002 | 60, 30*, 72 ** | Ione to Jackson via Sutter Creek, then up Clinton to 88 & back via Irishtown & Sutter Creek | John Rovane, Karen Belvoir*, Dave Brubaker, Larry Hayes, and Chuck Gray, Scott T.**, Ray R.** | Karen got the raw end of the deal. She rode with the group all the way to the top of Clinton then bailed out in Pioneer to meet with friends while the rest of the peleton enjoyed the downhill back to Ione. Larry & Chuck played cat & mouse much of the way. It was wonderful to have Dave back. The Don allowed us to curtail the ride so several of us could take care of family matters at home. Thanks! We saw Scott T and Ray R heading up the hill as we pulled into Ione. They made an early start and ended up getting 72 miles on the same route by adding on Volcano, Lockwood, & Fiddletown. Way to go! (CG) |
| 5/4/2002 | 67, 50 | standard coffee route + IH-WC earlybird | early/long: Ray, Anita, Michael K, Sarah, Jerry, Andy, Vic, Louis, Larry; late/short: Gene, Steve H, Ed | I'm sure someone else will write the full report, but I just wanted to insert here that Gene did it again--quietly, as usual. He raced the TT's in the Senior Olympics on Friday--against his arch-rival (former world champ) and the cold wind. He came in second again in all three races. Steve and I gave him the nickname "Avis"--and I think he laughed when we told him. Congratulations, again, Gene. We forewent coffee and kept a brisk-ish pace (except for me going up Rams Horn) so that Ray and Jerry could get to Sacto in time for Kings-Mavs game 1. Thanks to Gene's pacemaking and a couple of flats for the early group, they didn't catch us til Sutter Creek. We cudda had coffee! Lots of catching up and joking at the restroom, creek road, and Volcano. Desite being afraid I wouldn't be able to finish the ride, we had a great one on a perfect day. Great to be back on the road, even with weak white legs. And thanks again to Anita for the guacamole and apple cake (served separately). (EH) SARAH: See Ed's report on the Saturday ride. I was part of the 'not-so-early, early-group' which left Ione at 0800, but stopped for Larry's double flats a mile out of town. A large contingent of bike mechanics orchestrated the emergency repairs, while Michael K, Ray, Anita & Sarah tried to find a warm spot in the sunshine to pass the time and wonder how long we would wish we had more clothes on for the ride start. We were soon to warm up on the upsie-downsies of Willow Creek, where the testosterone fueled pelaton geared into action, to the accompaniment of Larry's squeaky chain (when do you oil that thing?). He was unable to sneak up on anyone for the duration of the ride because the dry chain symphony alerted all to his advance (not that I was ever behind him to have him sneak up on me) We rolled into SC a bit late, but found the Three Amigos, Ed, Steve & Gene at the restroom/water stop. Sarah nearly committed the sixth cardinal sin by propping her bike on the opposite side of a pole from Ray's where it started to slip over in slow motion, threatening to take out Ray's bike as well. Only Steve H's lightening quick response saved Ray's pride & joy from an inevitable fall. Deepest apologies again to Ray for my oversight....my bicycle education continues. Up the Creek Road hearing tales of Gene's great performance the day previous at the Seniors.....triple silvers again for our terrific 'senior.' Received an education on the difference between a road bike and time trial bike. The Ray/Ed/Michael train pulled up on us, and quickly left me in the dust, while Gene hung on for the trip to Volcano. I posted myself in back in the event of a medical emergency to attend to...... Short stop in Volcano where we took over all the bench space and then some. Michael K. admonished me NOT to park my bike anywhere close to his! The King's fans (Ray & Jerry) already plotting estimated time to Ione for the quick change and on to Arco arena. Gene turned back down the creek road to SC to make a date with his wife. Up Rams Horn, the Stockton contingent challenged each other with gusto, and smoked up to Daffodil Hill where there was a large group of cyclists from somewhere else (did anyone ever find out who they were?) Sarah got a jump start ahead of the group, but a few miles later the pelaton whistled past on an uphill, and I could never catch on. Anita even confessed that her legs were toast, and I quickly agreed. Final regrouping at the top of Papa Bear with a decision to head straight to Ione where Cinco de Mayo treats awaited us courtesy of Anita. Andy led the pace line from SC/Ione Rd. into Ione.....a good way to end a great ride with some new blood to fuel the usual Erma energy pool. Back at the parking lot all agreed a most excellent adventure, with warnings to Larry about proper bike maintenance. Ice cold orange slices, peanut butter & bagels and cold drinks from Sarah. The highlight of post-ride eating fest had to be Anita's fabulous made that morning at 6AM guacamole with lime flavored Doritos. Incredible!!! Dessert was Anita's apple cake with gooey frosting.... a most fitting end to a great day in Amador County. Good to see Ed again, and share in Gene's successes at the time trials. Ray & Jerry off to Arco to watch the King's play-off game after a quick clean up in the garden hose, and Sarah & Anita headed home via the strawberry stand on Hwy 88.....absolutely delicious right now! We heard later that Andy drove straight to the bike shop to make Larry drop off his bike for a tune-up! After his strong performance with a dry chain & creaky gears I can't wait to see how well he rides when his bike is in top condition! (SS) |
| 5/1/2002 | 45 with 500 feet of climbing | May Day Workers Ride Daffodil Hill Lockwood Fiddletown Drytown New Chicago Turner, S.C. | Comrades Honeychurch, Molinelli, McGrath | AARP today stands for Awaken Representatives of the Retired Prolitariat! We celebrated May Day in true Berkeley fashion as Steve brought his hammer and sickle hat and we discuss how to overthrow the threat of worldwide globalization. We also rode our bikes on a great ride going up to Volcano where we were pushed off the road by a semi obviosly driven by one of those capitalist tools. At Volcano we encountered a man in his truck who told us he did the Wildflower Century over the weekend and the weather was truly awful. Where are those ride reports? After going up to Lockwood we had one of those truly great rotating pace lines down where everbody pulled for for no more than two minutes which made a fast consistant pace down. After stopping in Plymouth to add water we went to Drytown and ground up New Chicago discussing the history of the old mines and miners. Turner Rd still has those nice fiords that Michael Kale likes so much with the wonder mixture of H2O and cowshit. That.s fun folks. We really felt we had a good workout when we got back to S.C. Next Mayday we will know the words to the Internationale. (SWH) |
| 4/28/2002 | 45 | Pardee,Rancho Seco | Steve H. Paul M. Mike C. | With the threat of rain looming over the foothills the fair weather bikers all stayed home and only the three intrepid one came out. As it was there was no rain and overcasr skies kept it cool-real cool! Mike was back from the Wente Road race where he did well and wanted to stretch his legs and tell us the stories of the race. (He was told to "cool it" by one of the ex-pros who said they didn't want to work that hard yet.) I saw masses of cars there on Saturday at the top of the Altamont which was the finish line but couldn"t see Michael Kale. He was probably too fast! The ride Sunday consisted of chasing Michael uphill and chasing Paul downhill. The last we saw of Michael he was powering up Stoney Creek trying to keep his heart rate 40bpm below max-or some such racer thing. See you all next week. (SWH) |
| 4/23/2002 | 37 | Usual AARP | Steve H,, Paul Molinelli, Joanne S, Ross from Lodi | We started at 8:30 as planned but the time change did not hit the web site for which we apologize. This could have been called the Linda Lovelace memorial ride since she died yesterday. For those who were born after 1965 she was the famous star of "Deep Throat." "Do you mind if I smoke while you eat?" The riding was good also tho' we did have two flats. Ross led the speedtrain down Clinton-Tabaud showing the old cat 2 form. After rapairing Steve's bottle cage at Bills where we connected with Steve M. we went over the route to the Chinese cemetery before heading home via Jackson Gate. See you all next week. Getten' Warmer Folks. (SWH) |
| 4/21/2002 | 86:73 | Ione to Plymouth,Ostrom Rd.to Fiddletown to Mt. Aukum, Fairplay | Jim &Penny*, Larry & Gayle (86)*:Anita, Ray, Steve H., Chuck, Karen, John R. (73) | From reports of those who rode on Sat., the winds were strong but today the wind made the ride quite pleasant. However,no matter the direction we rode, it seemed to be always in our face. This ride had the option of riding to Omo Ranch but there were no takers. A few would have liked to, but they were a bit tired from the tough ride they had on Sat. and the rest of us knew we didn't have the form yet for that tough of a ride. When we arrived in Plymouth there were at least 60 cyclists getting ready to ride out ..... most on Harley Davidsons!! Two of them turned out to be Steve H's neighbors/friends. To say Jim was in "seventh heaven" when the "hogs" fired up would be an understatement. Either Jim or Larry befriended one rider who wanted to trade his "chopper" and "old lady" for the tandem .... maybe he thought Penny or Gayle would be included in the trade. Heading out of Plymouth, with no exchanges of equipment or "personnel", we headed for Fiddletown via Ostrom Rd.. This was a new direction for most and met with their approval. From Fiddletown we headed to Mt. Aukum via Tyler Rd.. Much to JR's delight, Steve H enjoyed riding UP Tyler since he favors riding down it. After refueling in Mt. Aukum , Larry decided that he and Gayle needed more miles. I don't remember hearing Gayle's "aye" vote on the motion but Jim and Penny decided to keep them company while the rest of us headed down the hill. Steve was under the gun to get home quickly since he had a concert later in the afternoon . While we were regrouping at the intersection of Shenandoah and Steiner, Steve had to keep the pedal to the metal so that was the last we saw of him .... except for Ray. When Karen and John arrived in Plymouth and joined up with Anita and Chuck, they were told that Ray had taken off in hot pursuit in an attempt to bridge the gap and catch the speeding Honeychurch. As you might expect, when Ray gets it in high gear, he can catch everyone short of Lance Armstrong and this time it was no different. I'd like to have seen Steve's reaction when Ray caught him and I'm sure, after the shock, Steve was very pleased to have Ray accompany him back into Ione. Back in Ione, Chuck, Ray, Anita, Karen, and John had a fine after-ride visit while enjoying Anita's DELICIOUS cookies (Ray "forced" me to eat the last one!!) and Gatoraide thanks to Chuck. Talked with Penny this Monday morning and both tandems and riders made it back "just dandy". Larry is now convinced, after Jim's "lecture", to try to take it just a little easier. Good idea .... Larry, you're already in fine form and STRONG so let the rest of us catch up with you. Glad everyone had a great ride and enjoyed each others company on such a fine spring day..... See ya soon. (JR) |
| 4/20/2002 | 65, 52 | Old Standard Coffee Ride - sans coffee stop | Gene, Chuck, , Anita, Andy, Louis, Sarah; 52: Steve & Carolle, Paul | Another beautiful spring day in Amador County to enjoy the countryside in all it's splendor. A spirited group assembled at the fire engine to meet and greet new-to-the-group-rider, Louis, and Andy from Stockton, who was joining the Ermas for his first time this season. Both proved to be formidable riders, and gave Chuck fodder for pushing the pace from time to time. Sarah, bachelorette for the weekend with Jerry in Portland, and Anita snagged a ride with the Stockton guys promising homebaked goodies at the end. Anita's scrumptious oatmeal-raisin cookies couldn't wait - she prepared individual ziplock baggies of these treats for all to stuff in jersey pockets for the journey. Up Sutter/Ione road, Sarah & Gene got in the middle of a modern day cattle drive using ATV's and pick-up trucks to herd the critters right up the road. With Gene's admonishment to "look out for the shiny stuff on the highway" we veered in and out of cow droppings for a mile, with the lovely scent of spring giving way to the pungent odor of cows in distress. We tried to imagine the conversation: "Wonder if we're heading for greener pastures or the great pasture in the reat beyond?" "What are those people doing in the funny tight pants and goofy shirts?" We gradually squeezed into the herd and quietly - don't want to spook them critters - snaked our way to the front of the pack to fresh air and clean pavement. Carol & Paul chose to stay behind the pack, inhaling the sweet smell of country and painting their tires with a bit of cow poo. Regrouping in Sutter Creek at the 'water stop" we reveled in our roles of urban wranglers - YAHOO!!!! Up Sutter Creek Road, Chuck took on my challenge to catch Anita, then push the pace for the Stockton boys, and he performed admirably. They were refueling in earnest when Carol, Paul & Sarah arrived to greet Rosie and enjoy the festivities of a Volcano "Arts & Crafts Fair" crowd. Rosie proudly showed off the "Rosie" postcard someone has produced and advised us all to buy a bunch of them. Bring your $$$$ next time, and stock up on next year's Christmas greeting! We headed up Ram's Horn, when Carolle told me we were short two riders: Steve and Chuck had taken on Charleston. Still don't know who challenged who on this idea - but they arrived not long after the rest of the gang at the Daffy gates and seemed none the worse for the wear. The resident peacock entertained us (and his lady friends) with an elaborate display of his brilliant, irridescent feathers fanned out fully to show off his amazing plumage. A sight to behold.....the peahen didn't seem as impressed as we were....she continued to peck about for handouts. Steve, Carolle & Paul headed back home via Shakeridge to family commitments, and the rest of the gang pushed on to Lockwood, then Chuck & Gene showed the 'new kids' the thrilling cruise down into Fiddletown. Louis hadn't been on this ride yet, and showed great promise as a strong descender according to Chuck. Discussion at the Fiddletown Park on where to proceed....Anita mentioned that with the Wine & Home Show some of the roads might be busier than usual, so mutual agreement took us straight back to Plymouth. Everyone running low on food & fuel....except Gene who probably still had some celery sticks in his pocket. When we asked him what kind of cycling fuel celery was he said it was the cholorophyll that did the trick. Judging from Gene's very strong biking, celery might be the answer for us all! Andy & Louis pronounced the water from Plymouth park bathrooms unfit for human consumption, so we backtracked to the Sierra Trading post for bottled water and one last bag of Ritz & peanut butter to fuel us for the final push home. Great pace line to start, then I fell off due to dead leg syndrome, and Gene was gracious enough to stay back with me. Even our 'slow' pace was a brisk one for me, and we finished the ups & downs of Irish Hill feeling good, and ready to be back to the parking lot. Visions of fresh baked treats and other goodies spurred us on. Gathering in Ione we enjoyed cold orange slices, more of Anita's cookies, Sarah's lemon bars and some good, junky, salty chips & cold drinks. All agreed the weather was perfect throughout - just a touch of brisk air to keep us cool, but no jackets required. We welcomed Louis into the group - he has had a road bike for just three months and is a very agressive rider. Andy was in good form after a week of "doing nothing" in Chicago on business, and Gene looked fit, strong and very happy to be doing what he loves best on a sunny Saturday - cycling. Chuck showed his usual effortless appearing prowess - none the worse for his Charleston assault, and planning on doing a long ride Sunday....his doubles loom ahead. Anita always a tough competitor, and a great chef as well. What a combo! So another perfect day in Paradise......please reread Ed's ride report from last Saturday.....I could never duplicate his poetic description of his ride - and I think we duplicated it this day. Ed, what a fantastic read....I have printed it off to readand remind myself of why we do what we do when others lie abed on Saturday mornings. Great to be back with the Ermas in God's country. (SS) Carolle and I got to the parking lot at 8:00am not sure what time the ride started. Paul was already there thinking the same thing. Anyway, it was almost 9:00am and we thought no one was going to show. Then Gene showed up followed by Chuck, then a white pick up showed up with Sara and Anita, they had brought a couple of very strong riders with them.(Sorry, I'm very bad with names and don't remember thier names) We all pulled out around 9:00am and headed up too Sutter Creek, then to Volcano. This is where Chuck told me we were going up Charleston rd, I was the only one to head up Charleston, and Chuck decieded to go with me, this is where we learned that the grade is 18% (ouch) but it's always fun riding with Chuck.(hope your at the DDC) Once at the top, we met the rest of the group, this is where Carolle Paul and myself headed back down Shakeridge Rd to Sutter Creek, then back to Ione. It was another great day of riding with friends. (Smc) |
| 4/16/2002 | 42 | InSearch of the California Poppy. S.C. Jackson Middlebar Arroyo Seco Ione and S.C. | Steve H., Steve M., Gene, Paul Molinelli, KevDon Strahan Sage, Ross from Lode | It was a large fast group that showed up for the annual Search for the California Poppy Tour. There was also hypertestosteronism showing as this was one of the faster rides of the year. Kevin brought along his friend Ross who used to race in the foothills and showed it as he rapidly rode up Sutter Hill with his 19 cog!. Coming down to Jackson Gate we rapidly came to a complete stop at the sign as the CHP was weatching and Steve flatted. We gather up and proceeded down into Jackson. Coming up to Middlebar Steve M. was warned this route would make him wish he was on Hale Rd.ie smooth as a baby,s bottom. Some people like Don think this is fun and push the whole way down while the rest of us think our rims have become square and our seatpost are about to become sigmoidoscopes. Alas, the poppys were closed up because it was too cold so we will have to do it again. After grinding up the other side Ross led the fastest pace line ever back to Pardee-even Steve M. began to melt down. Gene looked especially strong as he prepares for the senior games and Kevin is rapidly returning to form. Stopping in Ione to fuel up and let it out we were entertained by watching the police doing a dui assesment (it was pretty obvious.) We all agreed this was one of our best AARP rides.SWH |
| 4/14/2002 | ?:45:50 | Ye Olde Sat. Ride route | Steve M, Jordan ?:Carolle, Karen, Cheryl, Ed 45: Steve H, Chuck, John R. 50 | Just as I was leaving Pine Grove for the Monday commute to another fine day at the Capitol, I realized once again that one day DOES make a difference ....this time because now the SNOW flakes were flying and it was COLD (35 degrees), while Sunday was a perfect day to ride. It was decided in "Ermas parking lot" that this Sunday ride ought to be the "Old Saturday Coffee Ride" sans coffee (sorry Edzo--not my idea!)since Daffodil Hill was once again "open" to cyclists and "closed" to sightseers. In Volcano , after being shocked with the number of cans of beer Rosie consumed the day before, the peleton decided to return to Ione via different routes. Steve M and Jordan headed back to Pine Grove, Cheryl, Ed, Carolle,and Karen used "The Creek Rd.", while Los Tres Amigos(Steve H, Chuck, and John R) headed for Daffodil Hill. All went well for "The 3" for about .4 of a mile but then SH's front tire "blew'. Chuck and JR agreed with Steve that it was better to have a flat while we were moving about 12 MPH instead of 40 MPH down Shake Ridge. The tire was changed in no time but Steve's pump was missing a part but one co2 cartridge got us back on the road. We took it steady on Rams Horn and found Daffodil Hill to be almost a ghosttown and then gave it a pretty good go on Shake Ridge. "Papa Bear Hill" let JR's legs know it's not good to layoff cycling for 3 full weeks so Steve H and Chuck, who are in fine form, were kind enough to skip Gopher Flat Rd.and take the easier "Creek Rd" back to Sutter Creek where Karen and Carolle were waiting patiently (well sort of).... they had been there for about 40 minutes. CP and KB said CY and Edzo put the hammer down leaving Volcano and never saw them again .... I think CY had chores for EH! It was sure good to get back to Ione and I hope never again to have such a long layoff .... it hurts too much but not enough to keep me off the golf course later that day !Thanks to all for a fun day of riding and see you and more of the gang next Sunday. (JR) |
| 4/13/2002 | 45*, ? | Gene: high road; Ed*: low road | Gene, Ed | This was the most perfect day of the year so far--for weather as well as scenery. This was the first day of the year that I did not even carry any warm gear--and that's saying something for me. Up Sutter-Ione, Gene took off and I took my time, partly for the usual reason of slow warmup and partly because the day felt pensive, poetic, musical. Because no one was around, I could listen to some Spanish guitar music and watch the amazing landscape unfold. Every shade of green was nearly shouting for attention. Blossoms popped up or suprised around every corner. The sky was bright and completely clear--one of those delicious-air days. Gene was fired up because he's riding more strongly than he has all year. He wanted to ride big hills and took off to see if he could catch Larry's Riders. I turned back and got to see Sutter-Ione again from the other POV--and faster. I finally warmed up and felt great, so toured Willow - Carbondale - Lambert - Irish at a great combo of good pace and comfort and spectacular scenery, just what I needed to try to find some legs again and to enjoy the day fully. Back at the parking lot about 12:30 feeling well exercised but energetic made me realize what good training it is to keep the quality up on a ride--so I changed the Sat ride plan, pending Ray's agreement, to emphasize shorter, faster-paced, shorter-stops rides. I also realized back there what might have made me so thoughtful and appreciative for the day: even though I hadn't realized it until then, it was the anniversary (the 29th) of the day I became vegetarian. What a perfect way to celebrate with the pure sensuality of a beautiful day and feeling good on top of a bike for the first time in quite a while. (EH) |
| 4/13/2002 | 87, 62**, & 56* | Ione, Sutter Creek, Volcano, Lockwood, Fiddletown, Mt. Aukum, Plymouth, Irish Hill | Penny & Jim, Larry & Gayle, Sarah*& Jerry*, Steve** & Carolle*, Scott T*., Anita, Don S., Chuck, Hux, Dave N. |
As I drove out to Ione for the Saturday ride I could not help but think of the confusion about the start time and wondered who would be there. Turns out, it was a terrific turnout; reminiscent of the early days with Erma when the ride schedule was by word of mouth. Carolle (and Steve) were going by the posted start time but were early so joined in with the group heading for Daffodil Hill and beyond. As of this writing I do not know who rode the 9 a.m. ride, but the 8 a.m. ride was one of the best. The route went through Sutter Creek and up the Creek Road to Volcano, Lockwood, to Fiddletown where Scott, Sarah, Jerry, Steve, and Carolle pealed off to head back to Plymouth and Ione. The remaining riders headed up Tyler Road to Mt. Aukum and down Shenandoah to Plymouth, over Irish Hill and into Ione. Here is a partial list of the highlights: 1. Gayle Hayes set all kinds of records. Her first time up Rams Horn, first time up to Lockwood, her fastest descent (down from Lockwood to Fiddletown), and her longest ride (82 miles). 2. In Volcano, Scott had to compare his anatomical measurements with other Erma riders, and found he was 3 inches short! Ed, you should have been there. 3. With that in mind, Scott had something to prove and took a shot at the record time up Ramshorn. His time was 13:27, 17 seconds off the record. You can bet he will be working on breaking the four-year-old record now that he has seen how close he came. 4. From now on you can pretty much bet there will be a lemonade stand on Bridgeport Road near Cedar Creek. When we stopped in the middle of no-where to re-group, Dave bought a drink from the two girls running the lemonade stand. Seems they did not think to have cups, so Dave drank from and old coke bottle they had handy. Then Gayle came along and wanted a drink tooÖ but changed her mind when they offered her the same bottle. Others purchased a cracker, while Penny just fessed up and paid them not to have to purchase anything. The price was the same for everyone, one dollar. My guess is they sold 4 ounces of some sort of drink, plus a couple crackers and grossed over $5.00! 5. While were recuperating at the store in Mt. Aukum, a guy with a shaved head in a little red sports car came up to tell us that only cyclists and golfers can dress like pimps and get away with it. I think he was eyeing Daveís bright poke-a-dot jersey. 6. With two tandems at the head of the pace line we had a terrific run from Mt. Aukum back to Plymouth. Thanks Jim, Penny, Larry, and Gayle for the pull. 7. It was great to see Sarah & Jerry back on two wheels again. Just another great day riding in Amador County! submit button: Send to Erma --------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| 4/9/2002 | 35 | Red Corral Clinton,Tabau, Jackson S.C. | Steve H. Steve M. Gene, Kevin Sage, Paul Molinelli | This week it was back to our usual route as we had debated all night whether to dare the rain gods. We did and got back just as the first drops fell. Kevin pushed Steve M. up to Volcano and Red Corral just to see if he would respond. (he always does). Gene is regaining his form now as he trains for the senior games. Riding fast down Tabaeu Paul reminded us that Newtons law is still in effect as he sailed by us on the downhill straights. Eventually it turned into a semi race as Steve H. and Kevin did team time trialing trying catch Steve (the animal) but we never did. He is ready for the terrible two now! Good day for all (SWH) |
| 4/7/2002 | **61,*40,? | Sunday Ride | **Steve Mc,*Carolle P, Kevin ? | Wow, another beautiful day for riding and no one showed up! Where was everybody? Caroll, Kevin and myself waited in the parking lot until ten minutes after nine, then decided to head out, we headed up to Plymouth, and I had to tell Kevin he should ride on ahead of us because we wanted to take it easy today and we would just hold him up.. Once at Plymouth Carolle and I rode over to Dry Town and then up New Chicago to Turner Rd. We had a great lunch in Sutter Creek then headed back to Ione, another great day of cycling. (Smc) |
| 4/6/2002 | *100, 66 | Party Pardee | **Steve Mc, Carolle P, Jim & Penny, Larry & Gale, Hux, Ray, Anita, Sarah, Jerry S, Ed, Hambone, Honeychurch, Paul M Al the Pal, Don S, Dave B, Gail (?), Debbie (?) | Ok, thought I would write a small note on our ride. The short time I rode with the group was great, it reminded me just how strong Ray is on his bike, it seemed the Erma's broke into three different groups for the day. Ours being the last group,we had a great day of riding, I tried to get Hux to push the pace a couple of times, I think he just toyed with me and let me go out ahead. Jim keeped us laughing with his jokes and Penny keeped me going with her drugs... Thanks, and I can't tell you how great it was riding with Larry and Gale, it's always good riding with Larry, but when his better half joins him it's just that much better. At the end of the ride I tryed to get our group to go on to Plymouth, but no takers, so I rode to Plymouth then towards home, once I hit 100 miles Carolle was there to pick me up and take me home. Thanks to all for a great day of cycling. (SM) As Steve says, it was a spectacular day. I found myself several times distracted by the blossoms everywhere, the pasture vistas that are painted with spring grass, the oaks putting out leaves. It was like riding to Oz. Have the Bike Hikers used that theme yet? A great combo of vigorous riding, led by Ray, Steve H, Al, and the Big A, and food and socializing in nearly perfect weather (it was a bit cool coming over Pardee itself). You know it's a good day when you are comfy in shorts out on the grass listening to Mumbo Gumbo and checking out your photos after the ride. There were several good photos this time, but my favorite was of Jim and Steve on the tandem (you had to be there). Email me your name if you got missed on the list. (EH) Here's my blurb on Party Pardee... A whole lotta Erma showed up early Sat morn. It was great to have Sarah and Jerry, and John H. back in the pack after their winter bike hibernation. Unfortunately missing from the whole scene was MK. The photo op on Old Stockton Road was not really a group photo as we got spread out all over the road. Then the photographer botched what would have been a good picture of me, Al, and Headless Ed. The pace picked up once we did our customary "on your left!" for Larry's sake on the way up to Camanche. The first group stayed together for awhile, but eventually thinned out by the time we got to Valley Springs. Dave B and John H. showed great form by "hangin'" at the front. I think they're getting in secret training miles. After Valley Springs, I took the second bus back to Ione and rode in with S and J, Al, Andy, the Big A, and a few others. The band was already rockin' by the time we got back to Ione. The food was so-so, but the great weather was only surpassed by the great company who showed up for the ride (RC). |
| 4/2/2002 | 43,*63,**68 | Steve's spring fling-Volcano Daffodil Hill, Hale Rd Fiddletown Drytown New Chicago, Turner Rd S.C | S. Honeychurch,Michael Kale*Steve McGrath**,Don Stachan, Paul Molinelli,(new Erma Rider), Kevin Sage, Joanne Sever and husband and a host of Stockton folks | You could tell this was as Easter rider as spring has truly risen-all the grasses were green and the flowers out. The parking lot was full of erma riders and friend as we headed up to Volcano. The "animal twins" Michael and Steve M. set a rapid pace as they outdistanced us practicing for their respective races and doubles. The Stockton group split off after Volcano not wanting the vertical that particular day. After going up Ramshorn where there was little traffic in spite of Daffodil we regrouped. The ride down Hale was spactacular with huge fields of flowers blossoming. This is where Paul and Don shined all the way down to Brubakers Crossing which was still flowing about 8 inches high. Michael got to practice his cyclecross skills as he doesn't believe in riding in water. (I of course walk ON it. No one got hurt on Hale -first in a long time but there was some invective climbing out. A wonderful paceline down Fiddltown Rd led us into Plymouth for refueling. After taking the highway to Drytown we went up New Chicago Don encouraged Paul by discussing Physics (yes it.s true) all the way up to Turner Rd. The ride on the backroad is beautiful at this time of year with flowers cows and their products going through the fiords we cross with glee. Arriving at S.C. about one p.m. Steve M. said we had 5000 feet of climbing and he was climbing another 1500 to get home! Great day for all-Thanks (SWH) Preconceived Notion - AARP rides are mild, mid-week meanderings. Reality - A strong group of riders on a very challenging excursion. Preconceived Notion - Steve H. selects his routes based on miles, terrain, exposure, etc.. Reality - Incorporating the greatest number of portages plays a huge role in route selection. Preconceived Notion - Steve Mc. is a very strong rider whose companionship I truely value. Reality - The same. (MK) |
| 3/30/2002 | 64 ... | pre-Easter coffee ride to Clinton, Tabeau, Irishtown, Stoney Creek | 64: Steve H, Anita, Gene, Ray, Ed, Michael, Don S, Jim G; 35: John S, Al; ?: Scott; (see separate report): Steve M, Carolle, Jordan | Some of us had been off the bike for quite a while, so Ray and Michael, especially, were patient while we remembered how to ride bikes in hills. But the weather was perfect--almost too perfect since I'd forgotten how to ride without bundling up. Scott and I noticed almost simulateously that my rear tire was bald, so at the urging of rational voices in the group and thanks to Anita's spare Axial Pro (sorry, Jim), I changed the tire while everyone waited patiently. And then I changed it again after pinched tube blew out. So it was a late and lazy start and tended to stay a moderate paced, sight-seeing kind of ride with lots of green, blossoms, animals, and lots of chatter all up and down the peloton. Steve's wife, Bernice, walked in the door of the coffee house as we were sitting there to surprise Steve. I looked around and saw he wasn't there, so Ray and I immediately began making excuses for him--"Oh, he'll be right back, Bernice." "He was just here a minute ago." I think Bernice was beginning to get worried when Steve came out of the restroom. She had posters of the home tour with a beautiful drawing of their home (AKA Erma Locker Room) as the artwork. John S and Al turned back after coffee. Steve, Carolle, and Jordan had started early and rode to SC and back. We never caught them because of my tire-changing delay. I wanted to turn back, but (at least now) I'm glad I didn't. It was beautiful on Butte Mtn, Clinton, Tabeau. We dropped back through Pine Grove and then Irishtown and West Clinton and back to the dreaded Hoffman and Stoney. Michael, Ray, and I played road race down Stoney for Michael's benefit--he plans to race in the Wente RR. I could hang on for the downhill parts at least. Then Anita caught me and was talking trash as she blew by. The "Big A" did a chunk of the pulling down Jackson Valley after the Ray TT from Wishing Well to BV. For many, it was felt like a hard ride after so much time off and in such unusual (comparative) heat. Everyone agreed it was a great ride but I think most of us were glad to get back to the parking lot too and sit for quite a while talking (even without Anita treats) about life and things. There we saw Larry, Gayle, and then Chuck and Mike A who had been out on their own rides. See everyone at Howard Park next week for the 7:30 roll-out. (EH) riders: Chuck, Mike A., Dave B.*,Larry & Gayle*, Dave N.** miles: *72, **110 routee: Saturday's Uncoffee Ride As Ed said, beautiful day. Didn't have to bundle up; in fact, didn't use enough sunscreen and got laughs from my daughter when I got home about the good farmer's tan that I was sporting. On Irish Hill I was intercepted by the Uncoffee Club of Chuck, Mike A., Dave B. and Larry & Gayle who left Ione early (Mike and Chuck wanting to ride to Cook's Station) and talked me into joining them up to Aukum. Pleasant ride with the tandem giving us many pulls (what? have they been closet cyclists the last 5 years or what? what a team!). After the obligatory sandwich stop at Aukum, Mike and Chuck departed for higher terrain (and snow?) while we descended to Fiddletown via Tyler. No flats this week. Not one to spoil the fun, Larry wanted to tackle Ostrum, so up it's 14% they went! We parted ways back at Latrobe and Old Sacto roads, with me headed home and the three of them going back to Ione. The 72 miles was a personal high for Gayle (a mark that will be broken soon I'm sure). Nice ride folks. Thanks for the company. (DN) |
| 3/30/2002 | *70, **27, ***20 | condensed pre-Easter coffee ride to Clinton, Tabeau, Irishtown, Stoney Creek | *Steve McGrath, **Carolle Peacock, ***Jordan McGrath | Today seemed to be a day of choices. We met in the parking lot and decided to get ahead start on the group, because Jordan and Carolle had not been on their bikes in four weeks. And we thought our pace would be slow and the group would catch us. To our surprise the group never caught us. Carolle and Jordan's pace was anything but slow! Jordan had new gears on his bike and climbed hills faster than ever (like we needed that). Carolle rode as if she had never been off her bike. We rode to Sutter Creek and decided to head back because Jordan has a basketball game later in the day, and he needed to save his energy. We had a very nice ride. The only thing that would have made it better would have been riding with the group. Sorry we missed you. Good luck to all those riding Party Pardee. Steve decided to ride home from Ione. When Carolle got home she potted some new plants then got back on her bike and rode down Tabeau to meet me. (smc) |
| 3/26/2002 | *25,**37,***62 | AARP | * Steve H., Kevin ** Gene, Paul M, ***Steve Mc | It was one of those days when you wake up and debate weather or not you should wear leg and arm warmers, I choose to wear just arm warmers, and that was too much.The weather was perfect, if you can believe my bike computer,which showed 70 degrees.We all meet in the parking lot at 9:00am.Today was Kevin's first time back on his bike in five weeks,by the way he was riding you couldn't tell. Paul M. who is new to the Tuesday rides, but not new to cycling,came out to tease us with his new bike and and his triple chain ring, and with the climbing we did today I wish I was riding his bike.Gene was riding stronger then I'd ever seen him ride, Gene decided it must be the new skinny Michelin tires, I think it's all the hard training starting too pay off. And Steve H. was taking it easy today,I know this because when we where riding up the Creek road he was in his small chain ring. But you can't hold Steve H. back long,he said to me "At the top of Fabio hill we will push the pace to the end of the Creek road" That's when I asked him if I could start at the bottom of Fabio hill, he told me "No, this is be kind to old fart day" but the way these guy's rode today, they where anything but "old farts".We rode up to Volcano and had a nice visit with Rose. Kevin Decided to head back down the Creek road and Steve H. went back with him. Gene, Paul and myself headed up to Red Corral then down Tabeaud to Jackson, I did my best to pull away form these guy's down Clinton, but every time I looked in my mirror they where right there. Once we got to Jackson Gate road Gene showed us how well those new Michelin tires work. He climbed that hill like it was flat. (I think he likes this road)At the top of we regrouped and headed back to Sutter Creek. Kevin and Steve H. where just pulling into the parking lot the same time as we did. They decided to have coffee and talk fishing stories. This was a perfect day of riding, with great people and great conversation. We enjoyed riding with Paul and it was great having Kevin back riding, I look forward to next week, thanks again for a great day. (SMC) |
| 3/24/2002 | 2:66: ????'s | Mt. Aukum - Fiddletown Loop | Anita, Larry H, Chuck, (72): Karen, John R (66): Dave N (110): Steve H (48): Gail, Joyce, Debbie (?) | After a few phone calls to and from the "hill people" and the "valley people" (sorry Ray for the early call to get Anita's #) , it was decided that the weather was going to co-operate and so the ride was now officially "on". It seems that everyone scurried around to get going, some missing breakfast(JR and KB)and one(AH) even forgetting socks , to get to Ione close to 9 o'clock. Had it not been for "jersey sizing day" for Ermas, JR and KB probably would have joined CY and EH by staying home since the weather in Pioneer was not too encouraging ----WET and cloudy. Thank goodness we got out and rode since it turned out to be, as JIm Gray would say, "just a dandy day for riding" and I think all that rode would concur. Besides, if most of us hadn't ridden our form would have been back to ZERO and that's not a good position. After the sizing was completed, Larry was very patient I might add, we (except Gail,Debbie, and Joyce) moved out under partly cloudy skies and a rather cool temperature. By the time we started climbing Irish Hill Rd. the outer clothing was abandoned and not needed again until we started back to Ione. In Mt. Aukum Steve H successfully lobbied the peleton to head back via Tyler Rd....because, in his words ,"it's as smooth as a baby's butt". We all knew better of course but we voted down his request on the last ride if I remember correctly. Steve was last seen by Anita while the others waited for JR who couldn't pass up a visit with a bassett hound. Then Dave flatted after the "visit" and so by the time we got to Fiddletown Steve had said good bye to Anita and Chuck and put the hammer down in hopes of getting home before guests showed up..... thus avoiding catching "heck" from Bernice. Hope you made it home in time Steve and that you also didn't have a "SM" (senior moment) and forget to return to Ione later on to pick up your vehicle. Larry H convinced Anita, Chuck, and Dave that they ought to punish their legs a bit more by riding Ostrom Rd. while JR and KB headed straight away for Plymouth. The peleton joined up in Plymouth and headed back to Ione anticipating the scones Anita had baked the night before. As usual the scones were DELICIOUS .....THANKS very much. (Oh,just keep on baking Anita and you can keep from being "assigned" ride-reporting duty!) Dave N, who departed company with us @ Latrobe Rd., may have missed out on the goodies unless Chuck hooked up with him on the way home and gave him a couple that would have surely make his extra mega miles that much easier. Sure a lot better than those TWINKIES you had in Mt. Aukum !! Great ride with great friends so it was "just dandy" to be on the bikes once again.(JR) |
| 3/19/2002 | 38 | variation of aarp ie new coffee ride | S. Honeychurch. Gene | The ride start was changed at the last minute because I saw too much sand and snow on the road the day before. I sent an e-mail out but little did I realize it bounced back because I left one l out of coollist. Sorry Steve. We had a nice pleasant ride and coffee shop stop at Seeing the Elephant. The proprieter is really excited about getting his name on the jersey.We.ll try again next week (SWH) |
| 3/19/2002 | 60 | "AARP Ride" | Steve Mc | I decieded to get an early start on the day and ride down to the "AARP Ride". I showed up in the parking lot at 8:40am to find no one there. I can't believe no one wanted to ride on such a beautiful day. Or maybe Steve and Gene decided to ride somewhere else. For what ever reason, you missed a perfect day of riding. While I sat there waiting for everybody to show up I thought of what route I would take if no body showed up, and at 9:00am still no body there so it looks like I'm the ride leader for the day, and I decided I wanted a ride with a lot of variety and a lot of climbing. So I set off on Sutter Ione, then to Willow Creek, riding straight into a headwind! I think it was John R. or Chuck G. or maybe it was Larry H. that told me a headwind will build character, well my character was tested to it's limit.Anyway,At this point I decided to head across Latrobe then up Old Sacramento to Plymouth, where I had lunch.(it's just not the same when your by your self). From Plymouth I headed up to Fiddletown at which point I made the decision to go up Hale Rd ( Yes I said Up). I had forgotten how hard Hale Rd. was, At the bottom of Hale there was about 6" of water running across the road, so I washed my tires and started the climb. After climbing up to Shakeridge I headed to Charleston and then down to Volcano where I took a break while talking to Rose, I asked Rose if she had seen Steve or Gene, she said "no, just you".I said goodbye to Rose and headed up Pine Grove Volcano Rd. By the time I finished climbing to Pine Grove I was ready to go home, so I headed up 88 to Tabeaud then home.So like I said you missed a beautiful day for riding, sunny sky's, very light traffic and with 5721 feet of climbing made for a perfect day. The only thing that would have made this ride better would be to have somebody to ride with, maybe next week. (SM) |
| 3/16/2002 | 25 | Land Park Criterium | S. Honeychurch, Michael Kale, Mike Thurmond | There may be snow falling in Buckhorn on Cheryl's birthday but for the die-hards the sun came out in Wm Land Park for the criterium. Ermas were represented there by Steve Honeychurch, Mike Thurmond, Michael Kale and as observers Jim and Penny and Al. I knew we were in the right line to register for the over 55 as they were discussing someone's hip replacements and which medications they were on. Ed, does Zinfandel count? We were at least spared on discussions of bowel movements.The first race started on time at 8 with the over 45's group with the over 55's. Steve got his first racing points EVER in his age bracket placing 6th. Mike had to abandon ship after doing well when leg cramps overcame him. Hard to race at 8 a.m. in 40 degree weather. Michael Kale really enjoyed his inaugral race and came fron the back in the last lap to finish in mid pack. He skillfully avoided the garbage can someone hit and rolled out into the course causing a severe case of road rash for one of the riders (Kids!). Tomorrow Lighthouse for those who want more. P.S. John Rovane--Bob says hello. (SWH) |
| 3/12/2002 | 36,32* | Usual AARP | Steve H. Gene, Steve M* | That young whippersnapper Steve M.was waiting for us in the parking lot having ridden from home to see if we really did ride on Tuesday. Steve is training for the terrible two and it show as he rides faster uphill than on the flats. Steve H. was practicing intervals up to Volcano in preparation for a crit while Gene is regaing his form. Steve M left us at his house off of Clinton rd. to rest up for his ride in the p.m. before going to work at night-0Is there sleep in this equation? After getting some adjustments at Bills in Jackson we headed home,glad to beat the rain.SWH |
| 3/9/2002 | @@ 131, * 42, **57, *** 50, ****20, *****56 | The tandems went to Pardee, The rest to Jackson & Sutter Butte | Dave "Animal" Neff@@, Carolle*, Karen*, John**, Chuck**, Ed***, Gene***, Anita***, Ray C***, Michael K.***, Ray R***., Steve H.****, Jim & Penny Gray*****, and Larry and Gayle Hayes***** | The paths diverged and we all took the ones less traveled. Jim and Penny, and Larry and Gayle took the tandem route around Pardee where Jim displayed his awesome ability to captain by staying upright after clipping a wayward canine. The deer and turkeys along the way were plentiful and I am sure they were perplexed that Gayle and Larry were climbing together while out of the saddle so early in their tandem relationship. Turns out it was an effort to overcome mechanical problems with their ìGranny.î It is funny how good things can come from adversity. A threesome from El Dorado County got bored with our pace and took off for higher elevations. Carolle, and Karen lead Chuck and John around Sutter Butte and back via Sutter Creek where John and Chuck tacked on a few more miles with a trip out Willow Creek and over Irish Hill. Steve Honeychurch had the audacity to admit he would rather spend time with his wife than us and headed back after Sutter Creek. Everyone else went to see the One Eared Elephant for coffee, and then after a trip around Sutter Butte raced down Stoney Creek. Everyone met back in Ione for some of Anitaís bodacious chocolate chip cookies. Dave Neff performed extraordinary feats as usual with his ìanimalî ride from Fair Oaks to the start of the ride in Ione and then home again after the ride. Way to go Dave; Paris-Brest-Paris will be easy the way you are training. (CG) The standard Saturday coffee ride had a very enjoyable time at Seeing the Elephant in Jackson, where the owners not only make good coffee, but make cyclists more than welcome. As usual, fun discussions of life and cycling. After Butte Mt loop, Ray pulled us down Clinton into a strong headwind and then told us how bad he felt because of stomach flu and inability to eat. His condition finally showed a bit on Stoney Creek, as did Gene's apparent overtraining. Dave rode the entire time as if he were out for a 10-miler on the bike trail--relaxed and easy. It was also the Other Ray's first Erma of the year and first coffee stop. Good thing since we got to discuss getting his logo on the new jerseys. Good group ride, especially working together through the Jackson Valley headwind. Get well, Ray--not that it seems to matter. And another thanks to Anita for the huge and delicious cookies. And good luck to Michael K, Steve, Michael T, and Ray in the races next weekend. (EH) |
| 3/5/2002 | 38 | Usual AARP Volcno Red Corral Clinton | S. Honeychurch,Gene | Last chance to ride before the storm and we are back on scedule.We met several other "mature" folks who want to ride with us Tuesday or the weekend. Today was just a liesurly ride-no accidents ,flats or dogs. SWH |
| 3/4/2002 | Steve 107;Carolle,Karen,John,Jim & Penny, Michael A; Michael T; Bret; Michael C 61; Larry 84 | New Hogan Dam | Carolle Peacock;Steve McGrath;John Rovane;Karen Belvoir;Jim & Penny Gray;Michael A; Michael T.; Bret ?; Michael C; Larry " Captain America" Hays | What a great day to ride...great weather, great route and great people to ride with. Before our day started, as we prepared for the sunshine, Jordan McGrath was there visiting his bike friends wishing he was riding with them. As Jordan went to see family, we started out on our journey with sunscreen applied. After a nice warm up, or was it a warmup, Michael T. dedided to breakaway. Larry, Michael A. and Steve decided to reel him in, but as testerone was rading their sence of direction was off, and missed the turn to Camanche Blues. Carolle and Karen, being good worry warts stopped and waited for the boys to relize their error. They didn't, so Carolle tried to catch them. Ha Ha. I managed to reel them in at Buena Vista. Well OK, they turned around and I cought up with them. I yelled at them "I AM THE RIDE LEADER, FOLLOW ME". Then we regrouped at Camanche Parkway and continued our ride. As I was trying to keep up with the tendem and in between coughing up a lung, we were making our way through Valley Springs and on to Hogan Dam. After a fun climb up the dam, the gas station in Valley Springs looked good. We had a quick snack and off to Pardee Dam and home. The Michael trio was a force to be reckened with all day. As if 61 miles was not enough, Larry "Captain America" Hays announced in the parking lot "if anyone wanted to ride a few more miles" and there was only one taker; Steve. Larry looking for his first 75 mile day this year and Steve looking for his first 100 mile day this year headed out for Irish Hill, Carbondale and Willow Creek back to Ione. Steve left our home in Pine Grove at 7:00am and rode to Ione for his warmup. I drove the Jeep to Ione with the heater on for my warmup. Thanks again to everyone who rode Sunday for a great day!!! cp |
| 3/2/2002 | 60,*54 | very modified new coffee ride ie Butte Mt. Clinton, Tabau. Aquedut Rams Horn etc. | Anita, Ray, Steve H, Al Q, Gene* and Al's friend ? Steinberg | You could tell this must be the premier weekend for biking as every bike club in the flat lands had large groups up here meandering all over randomly with little connections but route maps.clipped to their bars. We headed up to S.C and then to Jackson where Al's friend a surfer who wanted to try biking disspapeared. The people at Going to see the Elephant now are really happy to see us on Saturday and would probably even wash our bikes if we asked them. After rounding Butte Mountain Al wanted to go on up Clinton which seemed to be a good idea at the time since the weather was perfect. Gene left us at volcano to head on down as he head enough climbimg for the day. Sitting un front of thhe store we saw a stream of riders from Delta Velo, Sacramento wheelmen who had come up Hale road "smooth as a baby's bottom" and down Rams Horn. We even watch a 76 y.o. man taking off to climb Charlston without triples! Read and weep Gene. Passing Daffodil Hill the plants are leafed out but no blossems and the owner said the grand opening day is March 16-stay far away that day! We had a nice paceline all ther way down led by Ray and Steve which Anita said was the first time she didn't have to ride alone. Going down S.C. Ione Rd we heard a lound band and Al came to a quick stop with a broken chain.For once we didn't have a chain tool between the four of us--we will learn. Steve and Anita headed back to pick him up but we didn't plan on Al's perserverance and Rays considerable proweess Ray pushed Al up all the hills and rollers and came in only five minutes behind us.. What a feat! Al administered physical therapy to Rays shoulder and owes him big time! Next week -practicing intervals for the Land Park crit-Anitas racing debut-watch out Chrissie!SWH |
| 2/26/2002 | 35 | S.C. Volcano Red Corral Tabaud etc | S. Honeychurch | The problem with AARP is more things go wrong with our bodies which is why I was unaccompanied. The roads were clear with only a little sand at the higher elevations. Good day for spring riding. SWH |
| 2/24/2002 | 65, 40 | Ione Mt Aukum: Jim & Penny, Larry & Gayle, Anita. Ione-Plymouth: Gail, Joyce, Bob, Debby | Jim & Penny, Larry & Gayle, Anita, Joyce, Bob, Gail B., and friend Debby | What a perfect day for a ride, and what a perfect route for the debut of Larry & Gayle's new tandem. Although they swore this was only their 3rd ride (or was it that they had only ridden 3 time) you certainly couldn't tell. They are strong! They managed to pass us going uphill on every climb, even when Jim and I were standing and they were still seated. Way to go Larry and Gayle. I was also glad to hear that Jim had instructed Larry in proper tandem etiquette: always use a hanky, no muscle blast, and no mexican food the night before a ride. It wasn't hard to notice how Larry tried to look out for Gayle, always asking if the pace was OK, etc. Just remember the other tandem addage: a happy stoker comes back to ride again. Anita was great and stayed with both tandems for the entire ride. Of course after listening to Jim's jokes, she may choose not to repeat that experience. Ken S. now has company for his "power bar" sandwiches. When we got to Mt. Aukum, Gayle was starving for real food - a sandwich and cheese and crackers were quickly produced and consumed (I think Larry even got a bite or two - just kidding Gayle). When we arrived back at Ione, we were treated to some of Anita's "treats." No wonder everyone is riding on Saturday! Thank goodness the Saturday rides haven't used up all of her generosity and she saved some for us on Sunday. Perhaps we should start a rotation for after ride goodies? It was a great ride, see you all next week end. (PG) |
| 2/23/2002 | 56, 40, 37 | short new standard coffee (SC-Jackson-Stoney) + extra ride to SC | 56: Ray, Michael K, Anita; 37: Chuck, Gene, Steve H, Steve M, Jordan; 40: Ed | I started in Sutter Creek since it had been a late night. But I didn't want to miss the ride and especially Ray's Olympic stories. He saved them until the coffee house, so we had a nice long stop there and got the inside view of what has been on TV. Ray's aunt and uncle have a beautiful house with a great view (snow-covered golf course). Ray saw bobsled and aerial skiing up close along with the Coke Girls, Roots (no berets left), packed bars, Salt Lake so crowded the police closed the entire city, and a souvenir parking ticket that cost as much as his plane trip out there. He also had time to try crosscountry skiing for his first time, downhill for half a day, and show a friend around town who had gotten so excited by the Olympics on TV that she got on a plane and came to Utah for one day just to be there. Quite a packed couple of days for Ray and entertaining stories (and photos later) for the rest of us. After a Ray-Train zip down Stoney, we grouped to pull against the headwind down BV and Jackson Valley. At Ione, we saw photos and then Ray, Anita, and Michael escorted me back up to Sutter Creek. The day was colder than it looked, especially early. Michael made the mistake of listening to Ray, who advised him to gut-out the first few minutes of cold. Those few minutes lasted about 3 hours. It was a beautiful day with both sun and clouds. We were all struck riding up Sutter-Ione in the afternoon how much it seemed to have changed. Suddenly it looked like a spring postcard in the dappled sun. (EH) |
| 2/20/2002 | 38 | B.V.,Ione Jackson Stoney Creek | Steve H, Kevin Sage, Joann Seaver, Dave Stoeffler, cameo by Gene P | You can tell Spring is coming when the fog is burned off before you start and we start complaining about too many clothes. Kevin brought along Dave who usually bikes with the Delta Pedalers and he really enjoyed real hills. We pedaled to the prison reflecting on Preston Castle's past and restoration. Warming up to Sutter Creek a prolonged coffee stop ensued as the proprieteress seems to have acquired a whole new attitude. (Does she miss us Saturdays?) Steve and Joanne worked on doing a team time trial down Stoney Creek flying by Gene as He was just starting up having finished his domestic duties. Ray now has to do this run in less than 24 minutes-Are you up to it? A nice rotating pace line back to B.V. was just what Miss Manners ordered to wind down. Come out and join us next week. (SWH) JOANN: I guess Steve is just being modest because he has yet to report how we smashed his Stony Creek Rd descent by over half a minute...and he pulled at least 90% of the way. With a stronger partner, who knows what he could have accomplished! Dave S was introduced to the weekly AARP ride and fit in rather nicely, being an Olde Phart himself. Dave was fresh off a 2 week bike tour of New Zealand but said that the Buena Vista/Ione/Sutter Creek/BV loop was every bit as pretty...if not more so...than NZ. You Ermas people sure have a good thing going up in your neck of the woods! (JS) |
| 2/18/2002 | 68, 80* ** and *** 50 | Plymouth Mt Aukum and return with variations | S. Honeychurch, John R. Karen B. Jim &Penny,Michael K.*, Paul from Yorkshire,Ed**. Cheryl**, Carol**, Steve M.**, Chrissie***, Joyce***, Bob*** | With the sunshine poking through it didn't take much to fill the Ione parking lot with Erma riders. We welcomed Paul who lives in Sutter Creek and wish he wasn't moving in a short time to Sacramento but we expect to see him back. After warming up on Irish Hill we met up with Joyce and Bob from Patterson who is just returning from an injury. Going up Old Sacramento Ed, Cheryl and Michael caught up to us from their various start places and times. Going up to Mt Aukum Jim and Penny showed us their "new form" and it's obvious they are practicing together a lot, getting out of the saddle smoothly and working together better than ever. Up at Mt Aukum everyone resisted Steve's pleas to go down Tyler Rd. "Smooth as a baby's bottom"--No one seems to believe anymore. Turning on Steiner Rd Steve had a sudden flat on his front and went through some acrobatics to get it to a safe stop. It took three men and two tubes and fifteen minutes to him back rollong again. I don't think Paul was impressed. Going down from Plymouth it was apparent Ray now has a rival at the front with Jim-n-Penny passing and pulling everyone in line. Another flat for Steve (bad hair day) on Irish Hill and no more long stem tubes but John and Michael nursed him back--Michael needed the miles so he could take more motrin. A good day and we beat the weather. (SWH) PS--It was a day of riding tangents. After merging with the Ione starters and then turning back, we found John Burge riding on Carbondale. Then Cheryl and I caught Jerry Weir on Sutter-Ione and rode to SC with him. (EH) |
| 2/16/2002 | 67, 38 | new standard coffee to Jackson - Stoney Creek - Irish - Carbondale - Willow Ck | 67: Anita, Michael, Ed, Steve M; 38: Carolle, Gene, Steve H, Don C, Don S | Sorry, Ray, it didn't rain til evening, so we got a nice, dry ride in. Though not nearly as sunny and warm as last weekend, it was not full-on winter either. By the time we got back to Ione, we could tell from the clouds and wind that a front was starting to come through. I apologize to both Dons for not being a good host and being clearer and more hospitable about directions. See Don S's report below. As we were pulling into Jackson (on Jackson Gate, Don), Steve and I were asking each other where Don S was. Some of the group insisted he was ahead, but we weren't sure. We thought he might have gone to the old coffee house. It wasn't until I got his report that I knew what happened. Again, sorry Don. The new coffee stop is at the far end of Main St. in Jackson, next to the National Hotel. It's called Seeing the Elephant. We have been arriving there about 10:30, I think--in case anyone wants to meet us there. The conversation included quite a bit about the Olympics, including speculation on what tickets Ray might be able to get--wondering whether any of the curling will be televised so we might have a chance to see him, shirtless, with "USA" painted on his chest, among all the other "curling hooligans," as he called them. That and Anita's spinning class experiences ("No, you're too young for me.") were the major part of our entertainment. Then we went straight down Stoney and into the headwind building on Jackson Valley. At Marlette, the four of us, at the urging of Michael and Steve, opted to add Irish-Willow, but I took everyone over to the more isolated end of Carbondale before returning to do Willow Creek. Fun route, but a bit dry toward the end. We need to remember to fill at Pardee before we do that loop. Gene reports that his wife is improving but that Gene is trying to cut back on training since he's had more TIA's recently. Steve M seems completely over the crash-related issues and riding strongly throughout. It was all I could do to keep with the other three over that final loop. (EH) DON S: Hi there, after falling off the back like a stone on Jackson Hill Road I lost track of the peleton. Didn't know where the new coffee place was so I took Argoanut to Stoney Creek, the through Bunea Vista and back to Ione. Nice day, nice ride, sorry I lost you. (DS) |
| 2/10/2002 | ?? | ?? | Jim and Penny, Gail, Gail's friend, ...? | |
| 2/10/2002 | 37 | Stoney Creek loop | Anita, Cheryl, Ray, Ed, Steve H, Chrissie | Although we originally planned a very short ride, the day was too perfect. Even I was in short sleeves and had leg skin showing. Our timing was still excellent since everyone was motivated, both by the great weather and the afternoon (day 2) of wine tasting. Thanks to Steve and Berenice (and their amazing home) we could clean up and stash gear comfortably and conveniently for our second day of tasting some great wines in Amador County. We had even more fun this time, discovering some new wineries (Frenz and Serenidad) and some great wines, including the voigner made at Terra Rouge with our own Steve Honeychurch's grapes. Great company, Ray and Anita, both on the ride and the tasting. Thanks. (EH) |
| 2/10/2002 | 70 | Moke Hill Loop | 70: Larry, JR & KB | KAREN--We finally broke down and let Larry be ride leader . . . only after I was assured Omo Ranch or Jesus Maria were NOT part of the plan. Although all of the Ermans began the ride together, I was quickly dropped, never to see the very motivated wine tour bunch again and before I could say "anaerobic", the 3 of us were alone to venture at my so-very-slow pace to Moke Hill via Paloma. On the way, we rode briefly (more accurately: "were passed by. . .") many other cyclists, all out taking advantage of the most glorious weather of the season to date - short sleeves!! Yoohoo!!! Once in Moke Hill, we opted to stay on Highway 26/12 all the way to Valley Springs, which was a BIG mistake that we won't make again. The traffic was horrid and the bike lane almost non-existent. One vicious van actually drove up behind us as if he were going to run us over! To say we were grateful to return to our beloved backroads is an understatement!! We cruised home via Camanche chatting the entire way, enjoying the beautiful sunshine and, luckily for me, getting to Larry's required 70 mile mark without having to make vulture circles in the parking lot, because . . . MY ASS HURT!!! kb LARRY--It was nice to see so many Erma's Diner group out for a Sunday ride, even though the majority was warming up for some wine tasting. John, Karen, and my self headed for Mokelumne Hill and beyond. Just a work of CAUTION don't ride highway 12 between Valley Springs (north) and the junction of highway 26. The pavement is good, the road and shoulder are wide enough in most places, however the traffic is Horridness. I've never seen so many discourteous, rude, ill-mannered, assholes in my life. We felt luck to escape that section of the route unscathed. It's a little unsettling; to look back and see a string of cars hugging the fog line at 70 mph with one of the vehicles is straddling the fog line. As the vehicles pass, you get the one finger wave and the shouts. I guess that is what comes of interbreeding in Calaveras County. If this sounds harsh, itís meant to, there was no reason for the drivers of those vehicles to act so uncivilized. We were not impeding traffic, we were riding single file between the fog line and the shoulder and our speed was close to 30 mph. (LH) |
| 2/9/2002 | 40, 70, 74 | Plymouth & back | Michael K (74), Carolle, Jordan; Steve M (70) John R, Karen, Cheryl, Anita, Ed, Ray, Gene | The first of the wine tasting days (Amador vintners' barrel tasting). Steve H had house guests to entertain--not to mention setting up his house so Anita could shower after the ride and before wine tasting. We had decided just to ride to Plymouth and back, and that was enough ride for almost everyone since most were riding on Sunday too. It was hard to cut it short since the weather was spring-like. In fact, MK and SM didn't cut it short. Both went out and added lots more miles, Michael with Sutter-Ione and Willow Creek, Steve by riding home to Tabeau Rd. Fun, fast riding with Ray and Michael got us in a good workout in a relatively short ride and got some good endorphines going to prime us for wine tasting. For those interested, we'll elaborate somewhere else on our findings both for good wineries and good wine. Oh, yeah, and even though he prefer skiing these days, John Drumm joined us at Steve and Bernice's for the wine tasting. Great day for picnicking, sipping, sunning, laughing--especially after a good fast ride. (EH) MICHAEL--Having parted ways with the more refined crowd, I ventured on. Up to Sutter Creek on what was one of the most beautiful days so far this year. A quick stop at the bathrooms and then back down. Once back at the Highway, I had to take advantage of the day and continued on and did Willow Creek and then retraced Irish Hill, it was like deja vu all over again... For some strange reason the miles did not fly by like they did when I was tucked in behind Ray and Ed. On the drive home I tried to nibble my biscotti (which were excellent) and sip a swirl my gatorade. All too soon I was scarfing and gulping. The picture was complete when I noticed I had a dirty nose and a lap full of crumbs. Oh well, so much for sophistication. (MK) |
| 2/5/2002 | S. Honeychurch | USUAL aarp (abreviated) | S.O | All you people out there who didn't get tickets to the winter olympics you don't have to go that far-just ride the AARP ride up Sutter Creek Volcano Rd. If I didn't know I would think this was the bobslead run because of the ice at the top. Daffodil Hill is still covered with snow-I think the groundhog saw his shadow and we will have 6 more weeks of winter. Unfortunately the usual riders were all sick (or maybe smarter) so I got to do it alone. Let's try next week. SWH [Steve: how many miles?] |
| 2/3/2002 | (60)(25)(?) | Party Pardee in Reverse (sort of) | Jim G, Mike A, Ken J,Larry H,Chuck, Anita, Karen, John R, Carolle, Steve, Jordan (60);Chrissie, Gail, Joyce, (?): Ed (25), Steve H (25) | Today was a day in which the riders were enjoying the ride without pushing the pace and not being in any hurry for the ride to end. The weather was just too perfect to have ridden any differently and if the gang had been just a bit farther along in getting back to form we would have ridden more miles. It was a special day for Jordan, Steve's son, as he reached a milestone by riding over 100 miles in 2 days!!! Way to go Jordan !! In Buena Vista the peleton parted company with Steve H, Ed, Chrissie, Joyce, Gail, and Gail's neighbor .Riding "The Party" in the reverse direction was a bit easier and was enjoyed by all . The only miscue of the day was one missed turn that sent us a little farther south but the couple of extra miles didn't phase the peleton. We encountered one irate motorist at that southern end of the ride who must have been upset that the Raiders weren't in the Super Bowl since he vehemently honked his horn and gave us the one-fingered salute. No problem since Jim Gray said that was just the motorist's way of saying that we were # 1!! Now that I think about it, Jim is right, Ermas Diner riders are Number One !! At the end of the ride the day was made all the better by being able to sit in the sunshine and chat while enjoying some of Anita's homemade treats. THANKS Anita very much !!Thanks also to those who rode for making the day so enjoyable and a special thanks to Mother Nature for providing such excellent weather in which to ride . (JR) |
| 2/2/2002 | 60, ... | SC-Jackson-(Butte Mtn. loop)-Stoney- BV- IH- WC- Ione |
60: Anita, Michael K., Ray; 46: Ed, Cheryl; 50: JR, KB, Chuck; 44: Steve H., Steve McG., Jordan, Carolle, Chrissie; 20: Pat J. | There were lots of people out riding this Saturday. It was good to see Pat out for his first Erma ride of the year. It was still pretty cold, especially in the shade, but it warmed up quickly once we started climbing. The initial plan of doing IH/WC at the beginning was scrapped, and we decided to go straight to SC. It turned out to be a "decide on the fly" ride. It warmed up nicely on Suttter-Ione. For someone just starting out in the sport and having been on only a few rides, Jordan was looking very strong as he was trying to catch Anita who was off the front. At this rate, he should exceed his goal of 1000 miles for the year by April. Halfway to SC, Chrissie joined us as she rode to meet us from SC. Before dropping down in SC, we regrouped and decided to bypass SC and go straight to the Elephant in Jackson. Pat decided to cut it short and turned back at SC. In Jackson, JR, KB, and CG headed off to do Butte Mtn., while the rest of us had coffee. Steve, Carolle, Jordan, and Chrissy were set on going down Stoney while the rest of us considered doing Butte Mtn. first. As it turned out, we changed the route again before leaving Jackson, finally deciding to head up Clinton to look for JR & Co. before going down Stoney. It was just as well, since Clinton was covered in sand from last weeks low snow levels. At Pardee, enthusiasm was at a low as we opted to forego the Campo Seco route, as well as the Camanche Blues route. We made pretty good time to BV, and said we'd do IH/WC instead. At Marlette, JR, KB, CG, and SH were done for the day, but we managed to talk Cheryl into joining us. However at the highway, both Ed and Cheryl bailed out and headed for the parking lot, leaving just Anita, Michael, and me. I don't know why, but those last 18 miles sure seemed long, especially since the ride wasn't particularly difficult (relatively speaking). By the time we got to WC, we were all pretty low on water, food, and energy. All we could think of was Anita's blueberry coffee cake sitting in the back of the car! It was all the motivation we had left to finish. Ed and Cheryl even hung around for coffee cake. It was excellent! Keep the goodies coming Anita, and you won't have to write another Ride Report! It was a great way to finish a seemingly endless ride! (RC) |
| 1/27/2002 | 24 | Comanche Blues | Jim and Penny, Gail Bullen and Joyce | Just how cold was it? Cold enough that Jim had ice crystals on both sleeves and in his beard by the time we were at the end of 5 Mile Road. Last week's ride to Mt. Aukum was balmy by comparison. With the exception of Jim, no one could warm up. We tried standing, sprinting, tucking down behind Jim, but nothing worked. It still stayed cold, cold cold. So we did the only sensible thing, headed back to the truck! Hopefully, this next weekend will be better. (PG) |
| 1/20/2002 | (#64) (@42) 24 | Mt Aukum | (#Jim,Penny,Larry) (@Carolle,Jordan,Steve) Gail and Joyce | Standard route to Mt Aukum for Jim Penny and Larry. Steve, Carolle and Jordan departed in Plymouth. Gail and Joyce joined us in Plymouth for your trip to Mt. Aukum. Larry Hayes |
| 1/20/2002 | 70 | Sutter Creek, Jackson,and UP!! | Chuck, Mike A., Karen, John R. | For those who rode on Sat.and thought it was a bit cold at 9 o'clock, "you ain't seen nothin" until you start @ 8 this time of the year. At 9 at least, the sun was shining brightly upon the parking lot .... unless you park in Ed's "Artic Zone"! Karen, nearing fine form thanks to her tred-mill training, bravely led us towards Irish Hill via Marlette Rd. which was colder than usual. Climbing Irish Hill warmed us up quickly. Chuck and JR did the soap box derby down Willow Creek Rd. but the cold weather prevented Jim Gray's record from being broken. The dark cold clouds moved in just as we reached Ione-Sutter Cr. Rd. and they stayed with us most of the ride. Karen, feeling really strong, had a new route planned .....most of it UP!!After reaching Jackson we rode Butte Mtn., Clinton Rd., East Clinton Rd., then up Irishtown Rd. to Pine Grove. JR was ready to head down before the climb up Irishtown but his desire was met by commands from Chuck and Karen to proceed up. So up we went and when we got to Pine Grove all of us needed some nourishment....Chuck couldn't resist getting a sandwich from the deli at One Stop and it looked delicious. After the much need break we headed to Jackson via Hiway 88, Climax Rd., Ridge Rd. ,and New York Ranch Rd. New route for all but KB. Traffic wasn't bad and all think KB's route is "a keeper". Except for the much needed stop in Pine Grove, the ride was non-stop except for regrouping. In Sutter Creek Chuck checked out his dream car the PT Cruiser. Some Rio Strada riders came by and headed off to Ione with us.....they didn't stay with us long but Chuck and Mike showed them some good Erma form !!! JR and KB were the "lanterns rouge" but had a brisk ride back to Ione. When we pulled into the parking lot we spotted Larry Hayes' car and Jim and Penny's truck. Shortly the threesome arrived from their ride to Mt. Aukum and that's when we found out that the Erma calendar had the ride scheduled for 9 and not 8 ....OOOPPS!! BOTH routes were made a complete success by all of us heading for Larry's Diner .....one comment, BRING BACK ERMAS DINER!! Today was another great ride with excetional friends. (JR) |
| 1/19/2002 | 60... | new standard coffee--SC, Jackson (Seeing the Elephant), Clinton, Tabeau, Volcano, Rams Horn, Shake | 60: Anita, Ray, Michael K, Cheryl, Ed, Steve H; 42: John R, Karen; 18: Carolle, Steve M, Jordan; 45: Al, John S | It was a cold and sunny morning at the Old Ironside lot. We gathered in the sun to decide the route. Same as last week was the marjority vote. Karen rounded everyone up doing circles in the lot shouting, "let's go Cheryl" and "let's go...??" We headed up for warming up and more sun. It was the usual line up with Anita and Steve off the front (and Ed in the rear). The cold slowed Ed more than usual this time and we all waited for him on the sunny summit hill of Sutter-Ione. Soon after, Steve M, Jordan, and Carolle turned back, with Jordan well on his way to his 1000-mile goal. The rest of us passed through Sutter Creek and up to Jackson via Jackson Gate. No flat this time, but Karen and John R rode around Butte Mt while the rest had coffee--first time for Al and John S. The "bandstand" area was near the door and cleared and perfect for our bikes. What a great cycling stop--good, fresh coffee, good artwork on the walls, friendly owners, and good music (especially when Ray picks and grins for us). The only regular missing was Gene, who is destined to lose his first place slot today (congratulations to Anita--being on top of the Erma list for at least a day). Then up to Butte, where we met J&K coming down as we entered Butte. They had to get back for a signing so kept going down as we went up. Last week we got warmer as we climbed--not because of the climbing so much as the sun. This week, we got colder as we climbed. We were also cautious on the roads since we saw black ice on some of them, but no one had any trouble. John S and Al turned back at East Clinton since they hadn't been on their bikes much this year (like since Sept for JS). We spent quite a while talking with Rose at Volcano, but not as long as last week, when the sun was so warm. Up Rams Horn, where the temp was getting noticeably lower and clouds rolling in. By the top of Shake, the sky was clear, but the air was still cold, with a headwind blowing up the road. Thank goodness that Ray and Ed felt good enough to pull us down. After a needed John Rovane memorial pit stop for the women in S.C. we were in a rush to get back to meet Ed's daughter, but I was feeling wrung out by the wind and cold, so Ed stayed back to pull me in while Ray and Michael went ahead. We really enjoyed getting warm and eating the sweet bars and lemon poppyseed mini-bundt cakes that Anita brought. This time at least we brought some home-roasted tamari almonds to add to the feast, and Ray had his usual bag of lime-flavored chips. Lots of fun conversation over treats. Even though it was a cold and hilly ride that took its toll on my legs, this was a lot of fun with friends in the foothills. (CY) |
| 1/16/2002 | 37 | Usual AARP | S. Honeychurch,Gene, Joanne S. Tom the doorman | While all you working people were snug in your officez at 70 degrees the real athletes were enjoying the brisk weather up the S.C. Volcano Rd where the temperature was less than the flat tires. (in celsius) Actually it was beautiful with the frost on the trees but none on the ground. We did get warmed up going up to Red Corral but had to be careful coming down 88 as there was some white stuff on the road. Acarefull descent followed down Clinton then a nice cup of mocha at the new coffee house in Jackson where the owner said he did not care if we brought our bikes inside. What a difference! Going over Jackson Gate after I was yelled at and sideswiped by one of the local intellectuals. I learned that foothill men don't like you blowing kisses at them for their transgressions. After he stopped his truck and claimed "you don't know who I am " it went downhill. Fortunately Joanne was there to the rescue-enuff said. We all got home the better for it. (SWH) |
| 1/16/2002 | 37 | Usual AARP | S. Honeychurch,Gene, Joanne S. Ton the doorman | While all you working people were snug in your officez at 70 degrees the real athletes were enjoying the brisk weather up the S.C. Volcano Rd where the temperature was less than the flat tires. (in celsius) Actually it was beautiful with the frost on the trees but none on the ground. We did get warmed up going up to Red Corral but had to be careful coming down 88 as there was some white stuff on the road. Acarefull descent followed down Clinton then a nice cup of mocha at the new coffee house in Jackson where the owner said he did not care if we brought our bikes inside. What a difference! Going over Jackson Gate after I was yelled at and sideswiped by one of the local intellectuals. I learned that foothill men don't like you blowing kisses at them for their transgressions. After he stopped his truck and claimed "you don't know who I am " it went downhill. Fortunately Joanne was there to the rescue-enuff said. We all got home the better for it. SWH |
| 1/13/2002 | 62 | Plymouth etc. | Me (John H) | 8 AM start with temp at 45 degrees. Rode Jackson Valley/Amador Lake loop for extra 15 miles before meeting the gang at 9 AM. What gang? THE ride was on Saturday. Sunday was a great day to sleep in or do chores or go to church. Oh Well! I was cold from my "warm-up." Might as well make my own way in the Erma World. Irish Hill, Forest Home, Old Sac to Plymouth. Up Shenandoah School to Flower Farm and return same route. Total for day of 62 miles. Can we call them Erma Miles? I really enjoyed the ride even though the sun never peeked through. It was 41 degrees at the farm at 1200 foot elevation. Impressions? Green and Grey. Birds in flight and cows in all their lower pastures. Hard miles but still my first for 2002. I'll do it next time with a friendly bunch of the Erma's Crew. (JH) |
| 1/12/2002 | 60... | Sutter Creek, Jackson Gate, Butte Mt, Tabeau, Aquaduct, Volcano, Rams Horn, Shake Ridge | 60: Ray, Anita, Michael K, Ed, Cheryl, Gene; 43: John R, Karen, Dave B; 25: Carolle; 18: Steve M & Jordan (cameos by Stockton BC, Delta Velo, Kevin's group) | I had my doubts about the weather as we left the valley in a cold, wet drizzle. It didn't get much better in the parking lot in Ione, but everyone coming from higher elevations said the sun was out. It was good to see Steve McG back on the bike. Earlier in the week, Ed and I talked about this week's ride and first heading to the "Elephant" in Jackson, then a ride up Jesus-Maria. Needless to say, it met with a less than enthusiastic response. So we said we'd head to Jackson and decide where to go from there. Half way up Sutter-Ione, the gloom of the fog gave way to blue skies and full sunshine. It was also complete with your local cattle drive and the always fun "dodging of the cow-pies." Anita and Dave stopped for coffee and chatted with Kevin's group for a few minutes until the rest of us showed up. After the quick stop in SC, we headed up over Sutter Hill and down Jackson Gate where Karen flatted and requested we send JR back to the rescue. While the coffee group (Ed, CY, MK, Anita's 2nd, Gene, and me) sat on the big comfy sofa at the new coffee hangout, the others (JR, KB, DB, CP) opted to do the Butte Mtn. loop. The owner's of "Seeing the Elephant," Julia and Domenic, were very welcoming and supportive of cyclists, even allowing Cheryl to bring her bike inside since it was out of view. Anita could have even had a job providing baked goods! They expressed interest in being associated with a more active and healthy lifestyle and appearing on the new Erma jersey. We talked about Anita's latest dating experience, just saying "NO," and her date's personal hygiene or lack of thereof. As for the rest of the ride, we decided to stay up high where there was an abundance of sunshine rather than dropping back into the fog. Anita said she'd ride up here until the sun went down (almost happened). We decided to do Butte Mtn., Tabeau, and Aqueduct on the way to Volcano, RH and SR. On the way out, we saw JR & company heading back in from Butte Mtn. The ride up to 88 was very therapeutic as we enjoyed near spring-like conditions while basking in the sun. The goat farm we passed reminded Anita of her last date, as her olfactory senses were stimulated. The flight down Aqueduct was exhilarating as we hit 55 mph without much effort. We easily could have hit 60 mph if not for the wet pavement on the curves. In Volcano, we talked to Rosie and found out about her latest ailments. I tried to convince Anita to try Charleston, but she was practicing saying "NO!" Up on Shake, we could see the clouds and fog below us. It was a fast ride down, with MK looking very strong. As we dropped into SC, the fog was thick, cold, and damp. Visibility was really bad. A lady even pulled over on Sutter-Ione and urged us to be careful. We stayed mostly together as we felt a little more secure in numbers. MK pulled us back into Ione as nobody really cared to do IH/WC in the fog. I don't think we ever figured out why it took us so long to do 60 miles, but it was sure was late. In the end, Anita treated us to scones and cookies. Lucky for her, otherwise she'd be doing this report. Just another great ride in Amador County. (RC) ED: One of the reasons I never get tired of doing the "standard coffee route," especially in winter, is Sutter-Ione Rd. First, of course, it gets us climbing (and warming) right away. But often Ione is in the valley fog, and Sutter-Ione is the fastest way to break into sunshine. Today was no exception. It's always a little different and always a delight to make that break-through (from damp closed gloom to a bright open world, from cold to warmth). This time it happened earlier than usual--down in the "Valley of the Pond," before the final steep hill. That little valley is fun to watch as the seasons change anyway, but this Saturday it was a fetching and changing combination of dark and light, cloud and sun. It seemed the perfect merging of two painting styles. Constable--a painter who paints a hyper-clear, somewhat romanticized countryside realism, always celebrating landscape. And Chinese landscape painters--whose veils of suggestion guide you to seeing more than is there and more than you would otherwise have seen. There they both were--making a living painting out of the half-mile stretch of Sutter-Ione Road between full fog and full sun, and I was riding through it. (EH) |
| 1/8/2002 | 36 | aarp volcano red corral clinton jackson sutter creek | S. Honeychurch, Gene Kevin S. Ross from Stockton | Our day started off with a bang as Gene blew up his tire. Ross our newly retired friend from the Stockton Probastion office thought it was just another drive-by shooting as he ducked behind the car. We did make it up to Volcano and the road was good and the weather not too cold. Gene returned home as he had a honey-do agenda and the rest of us continued climbing. Ross who was riding for the first tiem was regaling us with stories of his racing days doing crits in Jackson (does anyone remember this?) and he seemed to have loist none of his climbing ability. After the race down Clinton it was a nice liesurly ride back to Sutter Creek. (SWH) |
| 1/5/2002 | 68... | Stoney Creek - Jackson - Butte (optional) - SC - Willow/Irish (optional) | 62: Michael K, Ray, Cheryl, Ed; 68: Anita, John R, Karen, Chuck; 45: Steve H, Gene, Al; 45: Ken J, Denny, Michael A | What more could you want? A beautiful day (for January): no rain, some fog and clouds, making for ghostly, changing landscapes and vistas. We even had full sun for a little while and a tiny sprinkle and dark cloud at the very end of the ride. Our first ride of the year was alternate jersey day as well as alternate route day. We decided to go straight to Jackson to try a new coffee house, so straight up Stoney Creek. Cheryl was kind enough to wait for me while I struggled to warm up. Ray doesn't seem to get cold at all, coming close to his best time up Stoney. He had so much time, I added several miles coming back to find us stragglers, which by then included John R and Al, who got delayed by a combo that involved (I'm just reporting these things, remember) a "stiffie" and a goat. Some things you just don't want to know more about. At Jackson, we found the newly opened coffee house and the Saturday regulars wanted to give it a try. The others (the "overachievers") did the Butte Mt loop (maybe one of them will describe it). The coffee group (Ray, Michael K, Gene, Steve, Cheryl, me) found a great new place. It has lots of room, a great decor (big cushy sofas and lots of chairs and room for cyclists to spread out), and great coffee. The only thing missing was Anita's pastries. In coffee house tradition, it also had a guitar sitting around, so Ray picked it up and seranaded us for a while. We spent about an hour discussing the name of the place, which I think Al never got straight--"Seeing the Elephant." Talk about your blind men describing an elephant. After a perfect, relaxed, humorous time at the coffee house, we took off toward Butte. We'd gone only 2 blocks when we saw the group. Perfect timing. Then up Jackson Gate, 49, and down though Sutter Creek and over Sutter-Ione, where Cheryl was nearly ticketed by the CHP for crossing the centerline. Instead, the officer, a cyclist, stopped JR/KB and asked them to warn her. Ray led us on a super fast journey down S-I. That was fun. Just as much fun was teasing Anita at the highway til she didn't know which way we were going. Though she though we were faking, we actually did the Willow Creek-Irish Hill loop. We had lots of little weird things happen all day. Besides the JR-Al incident, Chuck lost JR/KB on Butte and did the loop twice. On WC, Anita cramped and had to be fixed. Also on WC, JR disappeared for a long time. When he finally caught up, he admitted that he had been doing some heavy bib work in the bushes. The delays left us exposed to a slight drizzle before getting back to Ione, but it was nothing compared to our last (rain) ride. We were all glad to get back in the parking lot before the real rain hit. I was glad to see that Anita wasn't alienated enough by our teasing to give her baked goods to the homeless. So we stood in the shelter of the eaves and ate smokehouse almonds, lime Doritos, and Anita's delicious cinnamon and cranberry breads. Lots of variety, lots of fun, lots of good riding, and good food = great first ride of the year. (EH) |